Book Snatch

Saturday Snatch: Shades of Milk and Honey by Mary Robinette Kowal

2012-02-25T10:22:00.000-08:00

I apologize again for missing Saturday Snatch the last couple of weeks. Life has slowed down a bit now though, so hopefully I'll be able to jump back into the swing of things.

Shades of Milk and Honey was the first book from author Mary Robinette Kowal, and, written after the Jane Austen style, adds a twist of magic to romantic themes.
Cover Blurb:

Shades of Milk and Honey is an intimate portrait of Jane Ellsworth, a woman ahead of her time in a version of Regency England where the manipulation of glamour is considered an essential skill for a lady of quality. But despite the prevalence of magic in everyday life, other aspects of Dorchester’s society are not that different: Jane and her sister Melody’s lives still revolve around vying for the attentions of eligible men.

Jane resists this fate, and rightly so: while her skill with glamour is remarkable, it is her sister who is fair of face, and therefore wins the lion’s share of the attention. At the ripe old age of twenty-eight, Jane has resigned herself to being invisible forever. But when her family’s honor is threatened, she finds that she must push her skills to the limit in order to set things right–and, in the process, accidentally wanders into a love story of her own.

This debut novel from an award-winning talent scratches a literary itch you never knew you had. Like wandering onto a secret picnic attended by Pride and Prejudice and Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, Shades of Milk and Honey is precisely the sort of tale we would expect from Jane Austen…if she had lived in a world with magic.

I read the first two chapters offered on the author's website and, as a dedicated fan of Pride & Prejudice and other books along those lines, fell in love! But, of course, now I'm on hold for it at the library. But I'm first. If that helps.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Tell me what you think!

Book Review: Intangible by J. Meyers

2012-02-24T14:23:00.000-08:00

Intangible is the first book from author J. Meyers, and a strong start to a new paranormal series.
Cover Blurb:
Twins Sera and Luke Raine have a well-kept secret--she heals with a touch of her hand, he sees the future. All their lives they've helped those in need on the sly. They've always thought of their abilities as being a gift.
Then Luke has a vision that Sera is killed. That gift they've always cherishes begins to feel an awful lot like a curse. Because the thing about Luke's ability? He's always right.
And he can't do anything about it.

There are hundreds of paranormal romance book filling up the shelves at the library near my home, and most of them follow the same specific story formula: girl has gift, girl finds hot guy, she is introduced to paranormal world, hot guy will waste away entirely if he can't have her, and so on. With this is mind I was a bit apprehensive when starting Intangible, but, happily, I found it refreshingly different.
Sera and Luke were very likable. They weren't self-centered and actively looked for those who could use their help. And though they were similar as twins are, each had very distinct personality that interacted well with the other. Marc (Sera's romantic Interest) also was definitive, if not as much so. I could read his conflicting emotions, and ultimately how his experiences made him who he was. The other characters, such as Fey and Jonas, were fun, and I look forward to seeing them is future books.
Characters: 4.5 Stars
Overall this was a nicely satisfying read. Time wasn't wasted between scenes, and there weren't inconsistencies with the gifts that Sera and Luke possessed. The story was unique and led me on with hints and ideas, until, in the aftermath of the climax, almost everything was revealed. And then in the final scene, that security was blown away, leaving me gasping for the sequel! Which, unfortunately, isn't. Out. Yet. *sigh*
Characters: 4.3
I really enjoyed the lack of cliches in Intangible, and the replacement descriptions felt natural and flowing. The style was straightforward and clear. Often when I picture a scene from a book it's a bit blurry around the edges, but many of the scenes from Intangible I could picture as realistically as if from a movie.
Style: 4 Stars

Rating: 4.3
Source: From author for review
Genre: Paranormal Romance
YA Fiction

Author Info: J. Meyers
Website- J. Meyers Books
Twitter- @jmeyersbooks

Book Tour: The God King by James West

2012-02-23T08:20:00.000-08:00

A big welcome to author James West, who is stopping by my blog as part of the tour for his new epic fantasy book The God King!

When James A. West was thirteen years old he read The Talisman, by Stephen King and Peter
Straub, and a seed of an idea was planted that someday he, too, wanted to create different worlds and realities. After many years and occupations—including a stint in the US Army, a year as a long-haul truck driver, and a log home builder—he enrolled at the University of Montana, Missoula. There, he majored in Psychology and, by chance, took a creative writing course that allowed him to revisit the idea of creating different worlds and realities . After college, he started a small woodworking business with the express purpose of using it to fund his writing journey. James lives in Montana with his wife and his bodyguard—a Mini-Schnauzer named Jonesy.

Favorite reads?
I started reading what most would consider adult fiction by the time I was 8 or 9 years old. I’d
pick up Louis L’Amour, Tom Clancy, any number of romance books, and whatever else was
around the house. When I was 13, my aunt introduced me to the Talisman, by Stephen King and
Peter Straub, and that book changed my life. I had always liked the fantastical in movies, but up
until then I had never read anything like the Talisman. In a very real sense, that novel opened a
door for me to explore not just the real world, but completely different worlds born from dreams,
desires, or even fears. I still read just about anything, but I always come back to the fantastical.

Inspirations for the book?
When I started this project I was looking into the dark ages. I discovered that such times are
dark in the sense that there is little known about them, because when a dark age falls due to one
calamity or another, survival becomes key—when you need food and shelter, there is little time
or effort spent chronicling day to day experiences. At any rate, I wanted to set a fantasy world
into one such dark age, and see what would happen.
In The God King, the end of the world starts unfolding from the outset when a power never
meant for mortal hands is unleashed upon the world of men. I wrote The God King as a stand-
alone novel, but with an option to renew in the sense that there is one small yet crucial element
left unfulfilled. Essentially The God King is the prologue/prequel of my coming series, Heirs
of the Fallen. My intention is to let the effects of this unleashed power, coupled with human
motivations and the need to survive another day, flavor everything else that I write in this world.

Did you know you wanted to be an author when you were little?
No, not at all. While the seeds of creating worlds fell into my head when I was young, they
lay dormant for a long time. I was raised with the idea that a career meant giving your life to
something you probably hated, but would pay the bills and build a nest egg. It was not until I
discharged from the US Army, went to college, and took my first creative writing class that I
started to consider the possibility of becoming a professional storyteller. My greatest hope is that
I can eventually pay my bills and build a nest egg with writing—something I love, rather than
despise.

Any Pet Peeves?
I don’t know if it is just me, but nine times out of ten it seems that when people describe their
pet peeves, I am usually left with my mouth hanging open, because they are the worst for doing
exactly what supposedly bothers them. That being said, I absolutely hate it when people take
their dogs on walks with the sole purpose of letting their pet potty on a neighbor’s lawn. I have
two or three of those types in my neighborhood. I tolerate them because, well, their pets seem to
so thoroughly enjoy fouling up my yard. When I walk my dog, I carry a poo bag … but I have to
admit, I have been carrying that same, unused bag for about seven years now :)

Chocolate or Peanut Butter?
I am a big fan of peanut butter. Sometimes chocolate gets thrown in, sometimes not, but peanut
butter works anytime, anywhere. Chips and salsa, though, is where it’s at!

Is there a soundtrack to the book/Favorite music?
I was born in 1972 and became a teen in the mid-80s. Somewhere in that time I transitioned from
top 40 stuff to Van Halen. About that same time, the whole Tipper Gore/PMRC thing heated
up (if anyone reading this does not know what that was, it is the reason we have warning labels
on music). Heavy Metal became the main culprit in everything from Satanism to teen suicide.
Naturally, being a teen, I had to check it out for myself. Suffice it to say, I became a long-haired,
torn-jeans-wearing, head-banger with Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Metallica, and Slayer serving
as my music of choice.
Getting back to your question, my tastes have mellowed and broadened a bit, but Heavy Metal
is my go-to choice when it comes to writing. What can I say? Some people like Red Bull, but I
get amped to write by plugging into something with guitar riffs that make your hair stand on end,
and a drumbeat that mimics the charging hooves of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse!

Do you need anything to write? (ex. chocolate, music, slippers) :)
Time and, of course, Heavy Metal … but mostly time. While I am thankful to have a job, I hope
and pray that enough readers will love and support my work that I can begin writing fulltime.

How long do you write on any average day?
I used to have an online woodworking business, but now work fulltime as a customer service
manager at a furniture store. Since I really enjoy my wife’s company after work, I choose
to write from around 4:30 - 7:30 am. For some reason when I get close to finishing a book,
a peculiar, unnamed affliction always brings me low, forcing me to call in sick. When that
happens, I find it therapeutic to write all day long :)

Give us the number one reason to read your book.
I wanted to write something that I enjoyed writing and reading, in the hopes that others would
as well. I wanted to tell a story that moves with a purpose, that grabs you by the heart and drags
you along, whether you want to go or not. I wanted it to be direct and engaging, a story where
you connect with the characters and their plights, a story that makes you want to stand next to
the hero, experiencing all their ups and downs. Mostly I wanted to open a doorway in the veil
between our world and somewhere else, a place that at first blush seems familiar, but really is
not. With The God King, the door is now open. I am not entirely sure what lurks on the other
side. I have seen shadows in the mist, and they have whispered to me, let me in on a few of their
secrets, but they have held back far more than they have revealed. One way or another my course
is set, and I intend to explore and adventure across the mysterious world that awaits beyond the
veil and through the doorway. I hope others will join me.

Author Info: James West
Website: James A. West
Blog: James A. West
Twitter: @jwestbooks
Facebook: Author Profile

Heroes are not born, they are forged in the fires of apocalypse...
In the heavens above, the three moons crash together, streaming fire and death in their wake; below, the seas rage as the roiling face of the world shatters. After Prince Varis Kilvar steals powers to transform himself into a god, chaos reigns from the king's city of Ammathor to the forbidding walls of the Black Keep. At his heels marches a demonic army torn from the very bowels of the Thousand Hells, and the risen God King uses terror to stake his claim over all lands.
Betrayed and bound to Varis by powers he does not understand, mercenary Kian Valara is forced to masquerade as the world's savior, while a beautiful Sister of Najihar prepares him for his last battle. Victory against a living god is far from certain, but vengeance? For Kian, when the battle rage falls upon his soul and the sword hilt is hot and alive against his palm, vengeance is never out of reach.

Thanks for stopping by! James West has generously offered to giveaway one ebook copy of his book The God King in any format via SmashWords.

*Giveaway*

Ends 3/8

Mandatory:

Follow this blog through GFC.

Extra:

Follow James West's blog (+1)

Follow James West on Twitter (+1)

Like James West on Facebook (+1)

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Tour Schedule

February 1st – Starter Day Party
@ I Heart Reading

February 2nd – Interview
@ Marsha A. Moore’s Blog

February 3th – Book Excerpt and Giveaway
@ Words Like Silver

February 4th – Review
@ Books, Books and More Books

February 5th – Promo Stop
@ Aobibliopshere

February 6th – Review and Giveaway
@ Kindling The Fire

February 8th – Promo Stop
@ Mama Knows Books

February 9th – Promo Stop
@ Full Moon Bites

February 10th – Author Interview
@ Brenda McCreight’s Blog

February 12th – Review
@ I Heart Reading

February 17th – Book Excerpt and Giveaway
@ Book Spark

February 19th – Review and Author Interview
@ Always a Book Lover

February 20th – Review and Promo Spot
@ Must Read Faster

February 23th – Review
@ Book Snatch

February 24th – Review and Giveaway
@ I Smell Sheep

February 25th: Review, Interview and Giveaway
@ Understanding Shae’s Story

February 27th – Review and Author Interview
@ Sheila Deeth Blog

February 28th – Review
@ Fiction Fascinatino

February 29th – Author Interview and Review
@ The Wormhole

March 1st – Promo Stop and Giveaway
@ Kindle and Me

Author Interview & Giveaway: Ahmad Taylor

2012-02-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

I am a 35 year old writer living in South Florida. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y. and lived in NYC until I was 29. I was a cop briefly, and then gravitated to private security consulting.

I’m big into most sports (I won’t offend the fans of the sports I hate, but it rhymes with snoccer… lol).

I am a Christian, and while I do not write about my faith, it definitely affects how and what I write about.

Favorite reads?

Hmmm. I am a huge Terry Goodkind fan. His Sword of Truth series is pretty great reading. I’m 8 novels in with about 3 to go. It’s a nice mix of adult fantasy with thriller thrown in there. It’s got an interesting heaven vs hell / good vs evil tone running through it. Think Lord of the Rings but way more graphic in terms of sex and violence.

I am also a big fan of Shakespeare. I took a couple Lit classes in college where the main focus was his work. I also wrote a short appropriation of King Lear, The Tempest & Macbeth combined. Once you get passed the Olde English, he is a great read.

And of course The Bible!

-Inspirations for the book?

The honest and true inspiration for this novel is my big sister. That’s the short-answer. The long-form version is; I had one of my “crazy dreams” in which my sister and I were government agents working on a secret project in outer space. In part 1 of the dream, all was well. Fast forward to second part of dream where she was missing and in danger. I had to try and convince people that not only was she not just a random figment of my imagination, but that she was also in harm’s way.

Once I woke up, covered in sweat and a bit traumatized, I grabbed a pencil and pad and started writing. After an hour I had a bare-bones outline. Next day I grabbed my laptop and the rest is her-story.

-Did you know you wanted to be an author when you were little?

When I was younger, I had many dreams and goals and hopes and wishes. I fantasized a lot of being a member of GI Joe or some other action-packed super hero type organization. In some respects that may have been the spark for me eventually getting into law-enforcement later on.

I also wanted to teach literature after having some great English teachers coming up in school.

My drive to write started midway through High School when I began reading Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allen Poe. Both authors/poets definitely got me interested in putting pen-to-paper early on.

-Pet Peeves?

I’m pretty agreeable in most settings, but I do have a few. Do not like messy people (though I have my moments of laziness – Just hate seeing others be slobs).

People who eat with their hands and then don’t wash them. Just keep your grimy, saliva covered fingers away from me!

Do not enjoy people who are certain that their opinion is certifiably correct and all others are flat-out wrong. It’s very arrogant and obnoxious and only serves to validate their ignorance when someone acts like that.

Oh, bad handshakes! Like seriously, do you have the tensile strength of a new-born? Even women have some amount of testosterone. Use it to grab my hand firmly and shake!

-Chocolate or Peanut Butter?

Probably gonna’ lose some readers with this one, but, Neither. I’m a strawberry kind of guy. Sorry!

-Is there a soundtrack to the book/Favorite music?

Um, I would say I definitely tried to imagine what music would go with the film version (should there ever be one made). Didn’t come up with anything firm yet, but I have some ideas.

Listened to lots of stuff while writing: Blink 182; Seal; Dave Matthews; Lily Allen; Notorious B.I.G.; Jay-Z; +44; Drake; EBT; John Mayer; Pink; James Taylor; Counting Crows; Corinne Bailey Rae; Pearl Jam; A Tribe Called Quest; 2-Pac; Rihanna and just about anything else that got me focused for that hour, day or session.

-Do you need anything to write? (ex. chocolate, music, slippers) :)

Sure, when I’m really gonna’ hit it hard, I like to have some tea handy, headphones plugged in, couple of oatmeal raisin or coconut cookies, and darkness (definitely hate bright lights in my eyes while writing. Messes up my “zone”).

-How long do you write on any average day?

Right now my writing consists of blogging and writing press releases and emails. While I was writing my novel I would probably go at it for 10-15 hours straight with only a couple bathroom, snack, or smoke breaks. The rest of the time I was locked-in so to speak.

-Give us the number one reason to read your book.

It’s a nice combination of action and suspense. It brings you along at one speed, then WHAM! Slams you back against your chair and ratchets the mood up several notches. Then back and forth, keeping you on edge the whole time. It also leaves you with just the right amount of questions where you understand the novel as a stand-alone but also crave the answers that await you in the sequel.

Author Info: Ahmad Taylor

Website: http://www.ahmadtaylor.com

Twitter: @AhmadDarkside

Facebook: http://Facebook.com/DarksideAhmad

Blog: http://open.salon.com/blog/ahmaddarkside

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00716M0YU

Government agent Derrick Thomas awakes from a disturbing dream to find a message from his father asking for help. As he sets out to lend his assistance he quickly discovers that not only has his father gone missing, but that a clandestine government agency is out to derail his search before it can begin. After the murders of two of his father’s colleagues and the further disappearances of his mother and sister, Derrick is thrust into a battle for the lives of his family while attempting to uncover details of a secret government program which may hold the key to his family's whereabouts. Will he be able to save them and uncover the truth before he becomes the next victim of a government bent on keeping him silent?

Ahmad Taylor has generously offered to give away three ebook copies of his Dark Side of the Moon on this blog!

*Giveaway*

Ends 2/27

Mandatory:

You must be a follower of this blog

Optional:

Follow Ahmad Taylor on Twitter (+1)

Friend Ahmad Taylor on Facebook (+1)

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Saturday Snatch: The Darkening Dream by Andy Gavin

2012-02-06T10:23:00.000-08:00

I apologize for missing this guys. I got back later than I thought I would on Saturday, and by the time I got around to blogging, it wasn't Saturday anymore. However, to make up for it, I have today an entire free book for Saturday Snatch!...On, er, Monday. Ahem! Introducing The Darkening Dream by Andy Gavin!

"FREE Two Days Only: A Vampire Novel with Actual Bite!

As the modern world establishes itself and pushes the supernatural into the shadows,

the supernatural fights back.

The Darkening Dream is a chilling new dark fantasy novel by Andy Gavin, creator of

Crash Bandicoot and Jak & Daxter, that has received rave reviews on Amazon and

Goodreads and is FREE for two days only on Amazon Kindle (February 7th to 8th)!

Download your FREE copy here.

Long-time readers of dark historical fantasy (Tim Powers, Guy Gavriel Kay, Katherine Kurtz) will appreciate the weaving together of mythology, occult, and religion, while younger readers and fans of HBO dramas (True Blood, Carnivàle) or urban fantasy (Laurell K. Hamilton, Kim Harrison, Jim Butcher) will be drawn to the twisted imagination, graphic action, and romantic tension.

Cover Blurb:

Even as the modern world pushes the supernatural aside in favor of science and steel, the old ways remain. God, demon, monster, and sorcerer alike plot to regain what was theirs.

1913, Salem, Massachusetts – Sarah Engelmann’s life is full of friends, books, and avoiding the pressure to choose a husband, until an ominous vision and the haunting call of an otherworldly trumpet shake her. When she stumbles across a gruesome corpse, she fears that her vision was more of a premonition. And when she sees the murdered boy moving through the crowd at an amusement park, Sarah is thrust into a dark battle she does not understand.

With the help of Alex, an attractive Greek immigrant who knows a startling amount about the undead, Sarah sets out to uncover the truth. Their quest takes them to the factory mills of Salem, on a midnight boat ride to spy on an eerie coastal lair, and back, unexpectedly, to their own homes. What can Alex’s elderly, vampire-hunting grandfather and Sarah’s own rabbi father tell them? And what do Sarah’s continuing visions reveal?

No less than Gabriel’s Trumpet, the tool that will announce the End of Days, is at stake, and the forces that have banded to recover it include a 900 year-old vampire, a trio of disgruntled Egyptian gods, and a demon-loving Puritan minister. At the center of this swirling cast is Sarah, who must fight a millennia-old battle against unspeakable forces, knowing the ultimate prize might be her very soul.

The Reviews Are In

"A vampire novel with actual bite." ~The Kirkus Reviews

"Mr. Gavin has brought something refreshingly new to a genre now suffused with

poorly-concealed bodice-rippers which have more in common with Fabio than

Bram Stoker: depth. His big baddies are scary, not romantic interests, and the added

religious lore is complex and engaging. Don't expect another Twilight -- the story

can get downright creepy, so be prepared for a return to the old horror sensibilities

of supernatural fiction." ~Amazon Review

"With Mr. Gavin's video-game pedigree, I was expecting something aimed squarely

at the 18-25 year old fanboy contingent; what I got in The Darkening Dream was

something wholly unexpected: A period novel with a female protagonist, a crash-

course on Judaism in the colonial years, and multi-layered series of plot arcs

featuring a crazy cast of natural and supernatural characters populating 18th

Century Colonial America." ~Amazon Review

"…A perfect blend of mystery, magic and myth. A grown-up Grimm's fairy

tale...emphasis on grim." ~Amazon Review

Read the first two sample chapters here.

Get your FREE copy of The Darkening Dream for two days only on Amazon here. No eReader or Kindle? No problem. Get free apps for your Web Browser, PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, BlackBerry, or Android Phone."

The Darkening Dream by Andy Gavin Free
Feb. 7-8
*Disclaimer: I haven't read this book yet and don't necessarily endorse it. If there is content I should be aware of please let me know.*

Author Info: Andy Gavin
Website: All Things Andy Gavin
Twitter: AsGavin
Goodreads:Andy Gavin

Saturday Snatch: The Sky Inside by Clare B. Dunkle

2012-01-28T11:02:00.000-08:00

The Sky Inside is a futuristic dystopian novel followed by its sequel, The Walls Have Eyes.

Cover Blurb:

The ads had started running on midmorning television the summer after Martin's fourth birthday. "Wonder babies are here!" they announced. ... Never had the arrival of the stork brought such excitement. Overflowing with charm and intelligence, Wonder Babies were like nothing the suburb had seen before.

But that didn't turn out to be a good thing.

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 the 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 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.
Acclaimed author Clare B. Dunkle has crafted a fresh and fast-paced science-fiction thriller, one that challenges her characters—and her readers—to look closer at the world they take for granted.

I found this book in the corner of my library and instantly fell in love it. I ended up not liking The Walls Have Eyes very much, but The Sky Inside is definitely worth a read!
The Sky Inside: Prologue-Chapter 1
Tell me what you think!

Book Review: Asenath by Anna Patricio

2012-01-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

Excessive Cleavage Covered For Your Benefit :)

Asenath is a debut historical fiction novel based on Joseph (yes, the one with the coat)'s wife, Asenath.
Cover Blurb:
Two Destinies...One Journey of Love
In a humble fishing village on the shores of the Nile lives Asenath, a
fisherman's daughter who has everything she could want. Until her
perfect world is shattered.
When a warring jungle tribe ransacks the village and kidnaps her,
separating her from her parents, she is forced to live as a slave. And
she begins a journey that will culminate in the meeting of a handsome
and kind steward named Joseph.
Like her, Joseph was taken away from his home, and it is in him that
Asenath comes to find solace…and love. But just as they are beginning
to form a bond, Joseph is betrayed by his master’s wife and thrown
into prison.
Is Asenath doomed to a lifetime of losing everything and everyone she loves?

I can honestly say that a small part of me has always wondered about Joseph's wife, and this provided a welcome sketch of how things might have been.
Asenath was a girl who, while sometimes a wallflower, was very loyal to those she loved. In many love-triangles the heroine is often portrayed as confused and helpless. But I didn't get that from Asenath, and I could clearly see how her actions were affected by her past. Joseph, though a bit too perfect to be realistic, was very romantic and interacted well with Asenath. I did feel that sometimes her parents weren't true to their characters, but it was refreshing to read a book where the parents are actively involved.
Characters: 3.5 Stars.
Almost everyone knows the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors, if not from the Bible then from Broadway. And, while building on that story, this book enlarged an aspect that is usually only lightly mentioned. As far as villains and action go, it wasn't as developed as it could have been. But the romantic scenes were enough to push it forward and it provided a good read for a slow day.
Plot: 3.5 Stars
The setting and language of this book lent itself more towards King Arthur's court rather that Ancient Egypt, and it took away from the book considerably. But I could hear the author's voice throughout the story and could tell she definitely enjoyed writing. Her enthusiasm wore off and made it fun for me as the reader.
Style: 2.8 Stars

Rating: 3.2 Stars
Source: From Author For Review
Genre: Historical Fiction
YA Fiction

Author Info: Anna Patricio
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Must Read Monday (#13)

2012-01-23T17:04:00.000-08:00

Must Read Monday is a wildly fun meme hosted by Jenna atFans of Fiction!

"The goal of the Must Read Monday is to find share your love of great books with others in the hopes that they'll add a new title to their To Be Read list.

Your job is to create intrigue for other hoppers. What makes your book so swoon-worthy? What do you absolutely have to mention so they'll read it?

On your post, you'll make an acrostic puzzle (think of it as an overview/book blurb type of thing).

For specific ways to build your puzzle, click here, but pretty much any style of acrostic is welcome.

When you leave comments on other posts, be sure to mention whether you're adding that book to your TBR pile, and what part convinced you to do so.

It's all about powers of persuasion, people:) You might have to think a little, but channel that inner-creative goddess (or god)."

This week's topic: An amazing controversial/banned book

I had no clue this book was banned/controversial until I saw it on the list of books provided at Jenna's link. But I've always enjoyed the message of peace and redemption this story portrays, and it really was amazing. (Frankly, I was just glad there was a book on the list that I'd read recently enough to write an acrostic on) :)

All the time

Second best

Everyone knows it too

Perhaps his actions were justified

Actions against his best friend, taken in the blinding glare of jealousy

Regretted an instant later

And for a lifetime

Time slips away

searching for an

End to the pain

searching for

Peace

trying to find

Excitement in life again

Apologies can't bring back the dead

but hope

Can be found

a separate kind of

pEace

by John Knowles

Saturday Snatch: Enchantress From the Stars by Sylvia Engdahl

2012-01-21T17:10:00.000-08:00

Enchantress From the Stars is a stand alone Sci-Fi / Fantasy novel from author Sylvia Louise Engdahl. Here's my review.

I found this book sitting in the library and instantly fell in love with it. Now it's one of my favorites!

Cover Blurb:
The Federation Anthropological Service would never officially have allowed Elana to be on this mission to the medieval planet Andrecia. If Youngling peoples found out that a supremely advanced and enlightened society like the Federation existed, it would irreparably damage their evolution. Stowing away aboard her father's ship, Elana suddenly becomes the key to a dangerous plan to turn back the invasion of Andrecia by an aggressive, space-faring Youngling civilization. How can she possibly help the Andrecians, who still believe in magic and superstition, against a force armed with advanced technology -- without revealing her alien powers?
Apprentice medical officer Jarel wishes that the planet the Imperial Exploration Corps has chosen to colonize didn't have a "humanoid" population already living on it. The invaders don't consider the Andrecians to be human, and Jarel has seen the atrocious treatment the natives get from his people. How can he make a difference, when he alone regrets the destruction that his people bring?
Georyn, youngest son of a poor Andrecian woodcutter, knows only that there is a terrible dragon on the other side of the enchanted forest, and he is prepared to do whatever it takes to defeat it. In his mind, Elana is the Enchantress from the Stars who has come to test him, to prove he is worthy of defeating the dragon and its powerful minions. Despite both Elana's and Jarel's inner turmoil, Georyn's burden is by far the heaviest. Ultimately, he must pit his innocent faith in the magic of his Enchantress from the Stars against foes who have come from a world beyond his comprehension.

Hope your enjoy it as much as I did!
Excerpt: Enchantress From the Stars
(Scroll Down)

Interview & Giveaway: Michael D. Young

2012-01-18T16:26:00.000-08:00

Michael is a graduate of Brigham Young University with a degree in German Teaching and a minor in Music. He puts his German to good use by working to build online German courses for High School students. Though he grew up traveling the world with his military father, he now lives in Utah with his wife, Jen, and his two sons. Michael enjoys acting in community theater, playing and writing music and spending time with his family. He played for several years with the handbell choir Bells on Temple Square and is now a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

He is the author of the novels THE CANTICLE KINGDOM and THE LAST ARCHANGEL. He is also the author of the inspirational pamphlet PORTRAIT OF A MOTHER. He has also had work featured in various online and print magazines such as Mindflights,The New Era, Allegory, and Ensign.

-Favorite reads?

I love the works of Brandon Sanderson, Terry Brooks, Orson Scott Card, Garth Nix, and David Farland.

-Inspirations for the book?

My time spent living as a missionary in Europe and learning about the vast religious traditions and imagery from many different cultures.

-Did you know you wanted to be an author when you were little?

Yep. I still have very imaginative stories I wrote when I in Kindergarten. I didn’t get really serious about it until I hit high school, however.

-Pet Peeves:

When people try to chase trends in writing without trying to infuse their stories with something unique. When people try to put others down in order to try to lift themselves up.

-Chocolate or Peanut Butter?

Peanut butter all the way. Though, when the two team up, it is pretty tasty too.

-Is there a soundtrack to the book/Favorite music?

I would have to cite the music I used in my book trailer, which is called “Requiem for a Tower” and was first used in the movie trailer for “The Two Towers”, and was based on the song “Lux Aeterna” from the movie “Requiem for a Dream”.

-Do you need anything to write? (ex. chocolate, music, slippers) :) I usually listen to music, often soundtracks or things without words. I have a favorite recliner in which I do most of my writing.

-How long do you write on any average day?

I manage between two to three hours of writing on an average day. I get most of it done after the kids go to bed and the house is quiet.

-Give us the number one reason to read your book.

The sheer amount of imagination that went in to crafting it.

Author Info: Michael D. Young

Twitter: @mdybyu

Facebook

Blog

Michael D. Young had written The Canticle Kingdom, The Last Archangel, and also has a prequel to The Canticle Kingdom featured as a new web serial story, called The Canticle of Night.

Xandir has been exiled to earth until the end of time. But when his cherub trainee disappears, Xandir makes a deal with rogue angels and giants that could restore life to the mortal woman he loves and end his assignment as a destroying angel in exchange for helping them bring about the end of the world and all of mankind.

When a young blacksmith s apprentice named Johann discovers that his homeland is contained entirely within a small music box, it s up to him to protect the only home he s ever known. With the help of an impossibly ancient knight, his best friend, Brigitta, and his trusty homemade sword, Johann races to find the only people who can who can stop the dark power that threatens to destroy the Canticle Kingdom an unsuspecting family and an old woodcarver from the outside world. Enter a world full of magic, danger, loyalty and bravery in this exciting debut from Michael Young, and discover that even the most ordinary objects and people might be hiding something truly wonderful inside.

Michael Young has generously offered to give away one paperback copy of his book, The Canticle Kingdom!

*Giveaway*(US Only)
Ends Feb. 2 (2/2/12)

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*Winner will be contacted by author. This blog is not responsible for the delivery or care of prizes.

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Book Review: Untraceable by S.R. Johannes

2012-01-16T12:01:00.000-08:00

Untraceable is a young adult wilderness thriller and the first in a series by S. R. Johannes.

Cover Blurb:
16-year-old Grace has lived in the Smokies all her life, patrolling with her forest ranger father who taught her about wildlife, tracking, and wilderness survival.
When her dad goes missing on a routine patrol, Grace refuses to believe he’s dead and fights the town authorities, tribal officials, and nature to find him.
One day, while out tracking clues, Grace is rescued from danger by Mo, a hot guy with an intoxicating accent and a secret. As her feelings between him and her ex-boyfriend get muddled, Grace travels deep into the wilderness to escape and find her father.
Along the way, Grace learns terrible secrets that sever relationships and lives. Soon she’s enmeshed in a web of conspiracy, deception, and murder. And it’s going to take a lot more than a compass and a motorcycle (named Lucifer) for this kick-butting heroine to save everything she loves.

This book was a satisfying read and held so much more than I expected.
While Grace (Main Character) was your average strong female lead, her first-person perspective allowed the reader clear insight into how her mind worked. I could feel her determination to save her father and her pain over her crumbling world. Mo (Romantic Interest) was very ... well, romantic but he seemed to fall for Grace a little fast. And there was one instance at the end, due to a plot twist, that I didn't think was consistent with his character. However, throughout the rest of the book there was very good chemistry between him and Grace.

Characters: 4.3 Stars

The starting premise is simple, Grace wants to find her missing dad or reach closure about the situation. But as she uncovers more and more clues, whole new dimensions of the mystery are unveiled. Dashing from one scene to the next, Grace barely manages to stay ahead. The climax was entrancing and the ending poignant! Untraceable will flow easily into the sequel.

Plot: 5 Stars

S. R. Johannes' touch was subtle but strong. Somehow action-packed moments managed to convey a quiet thoughtfulness as well as painting a vivid picture of Grace's demons. As Grace tried to untangle her confused life, steady themes emerged and suddenly the title, Untraceable, held enormous importance.

Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 4.8

Source: From Author For Review

Genre: Thriller

YA Fiction

Author Info: S. R. Johannes

Twitter @SRJohannes

Facebook S. R. Johannes

Goodreads S. R. Johannes

Blog Market My Words

Book Review: The Last Archangel by Michael D. Young

2012-01-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

The Last Archangel is is a new novel from author Michael D. Young, who also wrote the Canticle Kingdom.

Cover Blurb:
Xandir has been exiled to earth until the end of time. But when his cherub trainee disappears, Xandir makes a deal with rogue angels and giants that could restore life to the mortal woman he loves and end his assignment as a destroying angel in exchange for helping them bring about the end of the world and all of mankind.

I heard Michael Young speak at LTUE last year and have been wanting to read The Last Archangel since then.
I really liked Xandir as the protagonist. He was witty, slightly sarcastic, and overall the under-dog I could root for. I felt his devotion to his love, Sempre, was genuine, and I could feel his pain and determination to do everything possible to get her back. The supporting characters did blur together and were sometimes hard to keep track of. But I enjoyed meeting Yearti, or as he is mistakenly called, Yeti.
Characters: 3 Stars
The plot was a little slow at the start, but things really picked up towards the end. As Xandir's path crossed in and out of the underground the adversaries' plot slowly unfolded. It was hard to tell who he could trust and false faces were on everyone. But the last few pages finished with a bang. And, while still tying up the book, left good openings for a sequel.
Plot: 4 Stars
Michael D. Young's The Last Archangel was a quick read It didn't require too much investment but was still interesting and a fun.
Style: 3 Stars

Rating: 3.3 Stars
Source: From Author For Review
Genre: Fantasy / Action
YA Fiction

Author Info:
Website
Twitter, @mdybyu
Goodreads

Must Read Monday

2012-01-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

Must Read Monday is a fabulous weekly meme hosted by Jenna at Fans of Fiction.
To see how to participate and view the rules, check out her site
The goal of the Must Read Monday is to find share your love of great books with others in the hopes that they'll add a new title to their To Be Read list. Your job is to create intrigue for other hoppers. What makes your book so swoon-worthy? What do you absolutely have to mention so they'll read it?On your post, you'll make an acrostic puzzle (think of it as an overview/book blurb type of thing).
For specific ways to build your puzzle, click here, but pretty much any style of acrostic is welcome.
When you leave comments on other posts, be sure to mention whether you're adding that book to your TBR pile, and what part convinced you to do so.

It's all about powers of persuasion, people:) You might have to think a little, but channel that inner-creative goddess (or god).

Favorite Book You Had to Read for School:

To Kill a Mockingbird is the most heinous of crimes.

Observe this rule.

Scout and Jem think they

Know Boo Radley's story.

They

Invent a game.

Find presents

Left for them

But the

Leaving stops.

Atticus, their father, defends the negro and is

Mocked for his choice.

Others understand, but most are rooted in the past.

The

Case is clear and hopeful.

But they

Kill the Mockingbird

Interest turns away from Atticus's family

Almost

No one gives a second thought.

Goings are normal.

But

Bob Ewell will have his revenge.

In the night a knife flashes, someone saves-

A quiet

Radley, left in the dark.

Do not kill a mockingbird.

By Harper Lee

Saturday Snatch: The Magi by Kevin Turner

2012-01-07T11:13:00.000-08:00

The Magi is author Kevin Turner's debut novel and the first in a series planned for five.

Cover Blurb:

Thirteen-year-old Elijah Hawk has never heard of the Magi. He knows nothing about their three thousand-year-old secret. He has never been to Savenridge, the Magi city hidden deep inside the northern woods. Most of all, Elijah is unaware of the dangers hunting him. After one terrifying night, however, all of that changes! On a quest to solve the horrific murder of his parents, Elijah stumbles upon the land of the Magi. Learning their ancient secrets and training with their power is the least of his problems. In order to find out why his parents were killed, Elijah learns that he must confront the dangers that are hunting him, even though it means almost certain death. What's more terrifying is discovering that his journey to this new world may not have been an accident after all.

I had fun reading this book, and, though I included links to this excerpt in my review, recently the sixth chapter was added. You can see my review of The Magi here and an interview with Kevin Turner here.
I hope you enjoy the excerpt as much as I did!
The Magi: Prologue--Chapter 6
What do you think?

Book Review: Cinder by Marissa Meyer

2012-01-05T18:10:00.000-08:00

Cinder is the debut novel of author Marissa Meyer set in the far future.
Cover Blurb:
Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .
Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

I've always had a soft spot for fairy tale remakes, but I must admit Cinderella was never my favorite. However, after reading Cinder, I just might change my mind. A spectacular read!
It always bothered me that Cinderella acted like a doormat and never stood up for herself, but Cinder (Main Character) was entirely devoid of this problem. She knew who she was and new how she should be treated. And she expressed that while not grating on the reader. Kai (Romantic Interest, Also Prince of the Commonwealth) was developed in a way that made it clear he was a person and not just a Prince Charming. And with all the main and supporting characters I could perceive the motives behind their actions.
Characters: 5 Stars
Marissa Meyer has crafted a story in a world so filled with detail and intrigue that I found myself reading straight through. With a plague, and a looming war with the Lunar people, the basic Cinderella story was very exciting. I did guess a big secret before it was revealed, but it was still fun to see the foreshadowing build on my hunch. I'm already counting down the days for the sequel, Scarlett, in 2013.
Plot: 5 Stars
Cinder did not read like a debut. It read like maybe the fourth or fifth bestseller from an author experienced in where she wanted her book to go and the best way to get there. Cinder takes place in the far future of China and I loved the mixture of past and future cultures. Very realistic,and I will be eagerly awaiting future books. (like seriously, you'd better move out of the way)
Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 5 Stars
Source: Amazon
Genre: Sci-Fi
YA Fiction

Author Info:
Marissa Meyer Blog
Twitter
Facebook
Goodreads

Saturday Snatch: The Last Archangel by Michael D. Young

2011-12-31T09:49:00.000-08:00

The Last Archangel is a novel set in the present time, written by Michael D. Young, author of The Canticle Kingdom.

I have wanted to read this book for a while, and I was pleased to find an excerpt on Michael D. Young's website. Unfortunately, the chapters offered only stoked my curiosity more.

Cover Blurb:
Xandir has been exiled to earth until the end of time. But when his cherub trainee disappears, Xandir makes a deal with rogue angels and giants that could restore life to the mortal woman he loves and end his assignment as a destroying angel in exchange for helping them bring about the end of the world and all of mankind.

I hope you like it, and tell me what you think.
~*The Last Archangel: Prologue & Chapter 1*~

Author Interview & Giveaway: Wanita May

2011-12-29T15:27:00.000-08:00

Wanita May grew up in the fruit belt of Ontario - St.Catharines. Crazy-happy childhood, she always has had a vivid imagination and loads of energy.

The youngest of six -- four older brothers, and a sister -- taught her at a young age to be competitive in all aspects of life.

At sixteen, she began competing in athletics (track and field) and before she turned seventeen, she was representing Canada in high jump. She continued to compete, breaking Canada's JR High Jump record (1.92m - 6' 3 1/2" for those metric-ly challenged). She attended University of Toronto, and Kansas State University - winning CIAU's and becoming All-American 6x - NCAA Indoors Runner Up + more.

But you're not interested in her athletic career - unless of course you're curious to know she stands 1.70m (5'7") and has jumped 20cm over her head on more than one occasion. She's represented Canada at the World Championships, World Jrs., won Francophone Games, and loved every minute of every competition. From the grueling workouts, the crazy weights she lifted on her back, the days she thought her lungs were going to spit out of her mouth for lack of oxygen, the travelling around the world and the opportunity to read - her favourite past time.

Life continued with her husband (a distance runner from Liverpool, UK, who she met at KSU) and then their first, then second and finally third child. Their house became full of more imagination and stories.

After her father passed away in 2008, from a six-year battle with cancer (which she still believes he won the fight against), she began to write again. A passion she'd loved for years, but realized life was too short to keep putting it off.

Her first book, Rae of Hope - from the Chronicles of Kerrigan - is published through Mitchell Morris Publishing.

She is currently represented by Dawn Dowdle of Blue Ridge Literary Agency. Wanita is a writer of Young Adult, Fantasy Fiction and where ever else her little muses take her.

-Favorite reads?

Usually whatever I am currently reading. I am a fan of YA, Fantasy, Paranormal. I don't think I could pick an absolute favourite. If I had to pick something I've read the most - it would be the Narnia series by CS Lewis :)

-Inspirations for the book?

My Father - he passed away in 2008 and before he died, we had a conversation that reminded me how much I wanted to write. So I did... and Rae of Hope is a result of that.

-Did you know you wanted to be an author when you were little?
I did :) But I also wanted to go to the Olympics :)

-Chocolate or Peanut Butter?
Both, preferably. Or ENGLISH CHOCOLATE ... its SO yummy!

-Is there a soundtrack to the book / Favorite music?
My editor and I came up with a play list that is at the back of the book. :)

-Do you need anything to write?(ex. snacks, music, slippers)
Just the time/ability to concentrate. I seem to write best during the evenings and do my brainstorming during the day.

-How long do you write on any average day?
I spend probably a minimum of 2hrs a day with writing - that isn't just straight writing. I consider the editing, website, social feeds, etc... all part of the writing process.

-Give us the number one reason to read your book.
'Cause it's got a unique storyline with a fantastic twist.

Author Info:

FB: Wanita May (or you can like my Author page: WJ May)

Twitter: @wanitajump

Website: www.wanitamay.yolasite.com

Blog: wanitajump.wordpress.com

Wanita May has donated an ebook copy of her fabulous book, Rae of Hope, for a giveaway! See my review here.

How hard do you have to shake a family tree to find out the truth about the past?

Fifteen-year-old Rae Kerrigan never questioned her family’s history. That is until she accepted a scholarship to Guilder Boarding School in England. Guilder is an exclusive, gifted school. Rae has no idea what she is getting herself into or that her family’s past is going to come back and taunt her. She learns she is part of an unparalleled group of individuals who become inked with a unique tattoo (tatu) on their sixteenth birthday. The tatu enables them to have supernatural powers particular to the shape of their ink-art. Both of her parents were inked, though Rae never knew, as they passed away when she was young. Learning about her family's past, her evil father and sacrificial mother, Rae needs to decide if there is a ray of hope in her own life.

*Giveaway*(International)

Ends 1/12

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Author Interview/Giveaway: Dan O'Brien

2011-12-27T09:04:00.000-08:00

Dan O'Brien is a writer and screenwriter. He currently attends a California university and is pursuing a graduate degree in Psychology. He has written over 10 novels, several screenplays and is working on a graphic novel. A philosopher and martial artist, his days are filled with writing and training.

Favorite reads?

That is a pretty long list. I have been reading Geroge R. R. Martin's fantasy series A Song of Fire and Ice lately. My all-time favorite novel is Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. Douglas Adams and Issac Asimov wrote some books that would definitely be included in a favorite read list. The Thief of Always by Clive Bark is great too. The Dark Tower series is pretty incredible. Lonesome Dove ranks high on that list as well. There are really too many to count, across too many genres.

Inspirations for the book?

Inspirations for writing generally come from crazy, random happenstance of life. I will often have strange dreams that become novels, and sometimes it is as mundane as having an idea in line at the grocery store. The novels that are out now were all the product of interesting dreams I had intersecting with the randomness of life.

Did you know you wanted to be an author when you were little?

I did know I wanted to be writer, or more accurately, that I wanted to be a storyteller. I was fond of creating intricate plays, rife with story and little characters mounted on Popsicle sticks.

We're about to be catapulted into a rush from one holiday to the next. Which is your favorite?

I would say New Years, simply because I don't particularly like the rush and traffic of Christmas or the food coma of Thanksgiving. I like the idea of friends and family getting together with the hope and promise of better times.

Is there a soundtrack to the book/Favorite music?

I listen to a lot of James Newton Howard and Hans Zimmer when I write. Recently, Mumford and Sons have found a place on my playlist. I saw them in Mountain View at the Bridge Benefit Concert and they were incredible.

Do you need anything to write?

My plaid sleepy pants. They get me in the right frame of mind to write.

How long do you write on any average day?

I try to think about specific writing goals, as opposed to time and duration metrics. I will finish a chapter or an outline; ideas and foals like those are how I normally measure my writing. If pressed, I would say I write at least an hour or two a day on average.

Give us the number one reason to read your book.

My books have believable characters who you will want to journey with until the end.

Author Info:

Twitter: @AuthorDanOBrien

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Dan-OBrien-httpwwwthedanobrienprojectcom/130177267017847

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4814321.Dan_O_Brien

Website: www.thedanobrienproject.com

Blog: http://thedanobrienproject.blogspot.com/

Dan O'Brien is graciously giving away one ebook copy of his exciting book, Cerulean Dreams!

Orion, the last city of men. Deep within the desert, a secret lay waiting. Young women found dead in the street. A corporation that controls the sleep of a populace that never sees the light of day. Alexander Marlowe seeks to unravel the mysteries of Orion as he helps a young girl, Dana, flee the city. The closer they come to the truth, the greater the danger that hunts them. Follow them as they search beyond the boundaries of everything they have ever known for answers.

*Giveaway*(International)

Ends 1/10

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Tweet about this giveaway (+1)

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Saturday Snatch: Ice by Sarah Beth Durst

2011-12-24T08:53:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Eve!
As of yet we still have no snow, and the forecast shows none for weeks. So I thought it appropriate that today's Saturday Snatch was Ice by Sarah Beth Durst.

I'm a sucker fairy tale remakes, and this particular fairy tale, East of the Sun and West of the Moon, is one of my favorites. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

~*Ice: Prologue-Chapter 2*~

Tell me what you think :)

Book Review: Rae of Hope by W.J. May

2011-12-21T14:15:00.000-08:00

Rae of Hope is the debut novel of author W. J. May.
Cover Blurb:
How hard do you have to shake a family tree to find out the truth about the past?
Fifteen-year-old Rae Kerrigan never questioned her family’s history. That is until she accepted a scholarship to Guilder Boarding School in England. Guilder is an exclusive, gifted school. Rae has no idea what she is getting herself into or that her family’s past is going to come back and taunt her. She learns she is part of an unparalleled group of individuals who become inked with a unique tattoo (tatu) on their sixteenth birthday. The tatu enables them to have supernatural powers particular to the shape of their ink-art. Both of her parents were inked, though Rae never knew, as they passed away when she was young. Learning about her family's past, her evil father and sacrificial mother, Rae needs to decide if there is a ray of hope in her own life.

I read the summary and was hooked, what an interesting idea! This book in no way was a disappointment.
Rae(main character) felt very realistic, and I loved the fact that, even though she was a very strong lead, she still had several insecurities and "personal demons" that she needed to deal with. In many books the main character is usually somewhat tempted by evil, however Rae always considered the greater good and was willing to give up her life for the world. Her roommate, Molly, made a fun quirky friend, and Devon (romantic interest) was exactly what a knight in shining armor should be, while not being stuck-up about it.
Characters: 4.5 Stars
As far as car chases and big battle scenes go, this book was rather quiet. But the plot kept my interest quite easily with Rae's self-development and the powers all students of her school receive on their sixteenth birthdays. Towards the later end of the book the story really picked up with a big twist that I had not idea was coming! For a while it was hard to tell who to trust! But I was very satisfied with the ending. It tied up nicely while still leaving openings for a sequel.
Plot: 4.3 Stars
W. J. May's words flowed and kept the story from becoming dry. It didn't feel like scenes were thrown into the book just for the heck of it. Everything had a purpose in furthering the plot, and though this was a debut novel it didn't read like one at all.
Style: 4.7 Stars

Rating: 4.5 Stars
Source: From Author for Review
Genre: Fantasy / Paranormal
YA Fiction

Author Info-
Twitter: @wanitajump
Website: Wanita May

Author Interview: S.R. Johannes

2011-12-20T14:34:00.000-08:00

A big welcome to author S.R. Johannes, whose new wilderness YA Thriller, Untraceable, was released Nov. 29 of this year.

S.R. Johannes lives in Atlanta Georgia with her dog, British-accented husband, and the huge imaginations of their little prince and princess, which she hopes- someday- will change the world. After earning an MBA and working in corporate America, S.R. Johannes traded in her expensive suits, high heels, and corporate lingo for a family, flip-flops, and her love of writing. You can find her hanging out online and visit her at srjohannes.com

-What are some of your favorite reads?

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting, Fracture by Megan Miranda, and Carrie Ryan
series

-Any inspirations for the book?
My hubby came back from camping once and told me he had hiked so far in that
someone could live out there and never know.

-Did you know you wanted to be an author when you were little?
No. But I always wrote poems and short stories. I even won a State essay on
Nutrition. I got free baseball tickets. At the time, I thought I won the lottery.

-We're about to be catapulted into a rush from one holiday to the next.
Which is your favorite?
Christmas. I have 2 kids so they bring all that magic back into Christmas. Seeing
their face on Christmas morning is priceless. I also love when the weather
outside is frightful and the fire is so delightful. Oh wait – that’s’ a song.

-Is there a soundtrack to the book/Favorite music?
I love Adele and Jack Johnson. I love Cake and Pete Yorn. I love all music in
general – except country and hard rap.

-Do you need anything to write? (ex. chocolate, music, slippers) :)
Uggs, coffee and peace and quiet Which you can imagine is hard with 2 kids.

-How long do you write on any average day?
Not long enough It varies, depending on my kid’s schedule.

-Give us the number one reason to read Untraceable.
It is a definite page-turner with a mystery, a kickbutt heroine and of course – 2
hot boys

Online Info:
twitter.com/srjohannes
faeriality.blogspot.com
facebook.com/srjohannes

Be sure to check out S.R. Johannes' book, Untraceable!

16 year old Grace has lived in the Smokies all her life, patrolling with her forest ranger father who taught her about wildlife, tracking, and wilderness survival.
When her dad goes missing on a routine patrol, Grace refuses to believe he’s dead and fights the town authorities, tribal officials, and nature to find him.
One day, while out tracking clues, Grace is rescued from danger by Mo, a hot guy with an intoxicating accent and a secret. As her feelings between him and her ex-boyfriend get muddled, Grace travels deep into the wilderness to escape and find her father.
Along the way, Grace learns terrible secrets that sever relationships and lives. Soon she’s enmeshed in a web of conspiracy, deception, and murder. And it’s going to take a lot more than a compass and a motorcycle (named Lucifer) for this kick-butting heroine to save everything she loves.

Must Read Monday

2011-12-19T13:49:00.000-08:00

Must Read Monday is a fabulous meme started over at Fans of Fiction, and it is so much fun!
"The goal of the Must Read Monday is to find share your love of great books with others in the hopes that they'll add a new title to their To Be Read list.

Your job is to create intrigue for other hoppers. What makes your book so swoon-worthy? What do you absolutely have to mention so they'll read it?

It's all about powers of persuasion, people:) You might have to think a little, but channel that inner-creative goddess (or god)."

Check out Fans of Fiction for more info.

I'm running a bit behind today, but, let's face it, when am I not? Consequently, today's book title will be short. :)
Best Rainy Day Read (Fitting Right?)
The greatest thief to ever live
He can steal anything
Eugenides is his name

To steal something that can't be stolen
Hamiathes's gift must be retrieved
Intrigue rules their small band
Every myth has some meaning
For what is true?
By Megan Whalen Turner
I love this book! See my review here.

Saturday Snatch: Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

2011-12-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the belated Saturday Snatch. My mind seems to rationalize that as long as it's still Saturday I can get away with posting late.
This week's Saturday Snatch is Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare! I have heard many good things about this book, and have yet to read it, but it's definitely on my list.

If you're like me, and have so many books on your TBR pile you're buried, then have fun with today's short, but sweet, excerpt!
~*Clockwork Prince: Excerpt*~
Tell me what you think :)

Book Review: Patriote Peril by Thomas Thorpe

2011-12-14T17:31:00.000-08:00

   Patriote Peril is one of six historical mystery thrillers in the Darmon Mystery series about a couple from Kent that solves international crimes during the 1830's. These novels include: Message of the Pendant, The Fourth Contention, Patriote Peril, Fair Wind to Bahia, Desperate Crossing and Without Redemption.
  Cover Blurb:
Following the return of an empty carriage, Elizabeth Darmon begins a harrowing pursuit of her family's kidnappers. Alone, scared on the frontier of New Brunswick, she trails the kidnappers through deplorable conditions along the St. Lawrence River to Quebec City where she finds a woman posing as Elizabeth with another William. Near the scene of the abduction, her brother-in-law, Charles, recovers from a gunshot wound and is led to the Patriote Party's fanatical element of Reformers. He is swept into a rebellion, recruiting Americans at clandestine hunting lodges. Family members cross paths attempting to unravel conspiracy and murder before a tumultuous assault on the governor's palace. Historically accurate events provide non-stop suspense.

  I hadn't read mystery for a while, and this was a good book to ease back into the genre.
Most of the characters did seem just different shades of the same color, and I think their reactions could have been a bit stronger, but I really liked that Elizabeth (first main character) never became a washed-out pansy. Throughout the entire story she was full of daring-do and would not shirk at anything to get her family back.
Characters: 2 Stars
I thought I saw what was coming on this one, but I wasn't close! Throughout every chapter the level of intensity kept building until the book finished with a bang. As with all good mysteries, the reader is led on with a carrot, and I can safely say this book definitely fulfilled that requirement.
Plot: 4 Stars
The action throughout this book moved very fast, and I (as a sometimes skimming reader) liked this. At parts it felt the story was stripped to the bare basics (no descriptions and such) but it was a nice effect for a quick read.
Style: 4 Stars

Rating: 3.3 Stars
Source: From Author for Review
Genre: Historical Fiction / Mystery
YA Fiction

Author Info:
Amazon Profile

Must Read Monday

2011-12-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

Must Read Monday is a weekly meme hosted by Jenna at Fans of Fiction. Check out her Must Read Monday here!
"The goal of the Must Read Monday is to find share your love of great books with others in the hopes that they'll add a new title to their To Be Read list. Your job is to create intrigue for other hoppers. What makes your book so swoon-worthy? What do you absolutely have to mention so they'll read it?On your post, you'll make an acrostic puzzle (think of it as an overview/book blurb type of thing).
For specific ways to build your puzzle, click here, but pretty much any style of acrostic is welcome.
When you leave comments on other posts, be sure to mention whether you're adding that book to your TBR pile, and what part convinced you to do so.

It's all about powers of persuasion, people:) You might have to think a little, but channel that inner-creative goddess (or god)."

This is such a creative meme! I've been meaning to join for a few weeks now but kept forgetting (whoops), so we'll see how I do today for my first time. :)

This Week's Category: A Book That You're Thankful Someone Recommended to You.

Mistborn are the rarest of the rare

Vin is Ignorant of her spectacular powers

Skaa rage boils below the surface

Question The motives behind every action

Bones swallowed for a masquerade

Saturday Snatch: Cinder by Marissa Meyer

2011-12-10T08:46:00.001-08:00

Cinder is the debut novel of author Marissa Meyer planned for release on January 3, 2012.

As you may have guessed, Cinder is a version of Cinderella ...that takes place in the far future...and there's a plague...and Cinder is a cyborg. Piques your interest right? I read the first chapter a couple weeks ago, and then the first five chapters were released and a short story, and I love it! Ready for the links?
Cinder short story:
Glitches by Marissa Meyer
First chapter from Macmillan:
Cinder Excerpt
Download first five chapters from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Macmillan:
Cinder: Chapters 1-5

Tell me what you think. :)

Gift Card Giveaway Hop

2011-12-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Gift Card Giveaway hop is hosted by the wonderful Inspired Kathy at I Am a Reader Not a Writer and Peep at Attack of the Book.

Merry Christmas everyone!
So I have a few questions for you. What better way to get books for the holidays than to win a gift card? And what better way to win a gift card than hop around on the Gift Card Giveaway Hop? :)
So, as a Christmas present to all you wonderful followers I will be giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card! To participate-

*Giveaway*

(US Only)

(Or if Amazon ships to your country)

To Enter:

-Follow on GFC

Extra:

-Tweet Giveaway and Leave Link (+1)

-Follow on twitter @booksnatch and leave username (+1)

That's it! Just fill out the form, and have fun with the other giveaways!

This giveaway will close at 12:00 a.m. on Dec. 14. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Author Interview: Kevin M. Turner

2011-12-05T16:59:00.001-08:00

A warm welcome to author Kevin M. Turner!
Kevin Turner is the author of the recently released The Magi, the first book in a children's fantasy series.
The Magi is Kevin's first Novel, but he has been writing since he could hold a pen. He is in the middle of the next installment of The Magi Series. Kevin is a middle school English teacher and a professor of philosophy and education. He currently lives in California with his wife and daughter and two dogs.
See my review of The Magi here. Definitely worth reading. :)

-Tell us some of your favorite reads.
Children’s – Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, The Hobbit, The Outsiders, Hatchet, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Others – L.A. Requiem, Angels and Demons, Chasing Darkness
-Inspirations for The Magi?
I teach middle school English. One of the most daunting tasks I have is trying to help a student find
a book in the school library that meets their particular interests and needs. After years of becoming
frustrated with many students not finding books they wanted to read, I decided to ask them point blank what their idea of a perfect story would be. I gave them a survey and had them fill out simple questions like what they liked to read and what made those stories enjoyable. Eventually, after going through survey after survey, some consistencies began to develop, and I took them to heart. I thought, “Maybe I could write this.”
And that was the beginning inspiration of The Magi. The creation is mine, but I tried to meet the literary requests of my students at the time.
-Did you know you wanted to be an author when you were little?
No. When I was younger, I was sure I was going to be a doctor. Then I took a college biology course and my future in medicine quickly came to a halt. And the world is grateful.
-We're about to be catapulted into a rush from one holiday to the next. Which is your favorite?
Definitely Christmas! The world is transformed at Christmastime into a magical, feel-good place where
life is simple and spending time with loved ones is encouraged. It seems that there is a timelessness
about Christmas that doesn’t happen at any other time of the year.
-Does there happen to be a soundtrack to the book / Favorite music?
I have a very eclectic taste in music. I can enjoy classical music at one moment and enjoy heavy metal
the next. If my book had a soundtrack, however, I would want John Williams to write it.
-Do you need anything to write? (ex. chocolate, music, slippers) :)
Absolute quiet. I’m not one to do well with distractions. I also find it easier to write in gloomy weather. That sometimes becomes difficult living in California. I may soon have to add tea to this list. That or at least some hot beverage.
-How long do you write on any average day?
I’m afraid I don’t write every day. There are some days that I write for hours and then others that don’t write at all. Lots also depends on what’s happening at work. I don’t yet write for a living, so I have to really find time to stay on top of things.
-Give us the number one reason to read The Magi.
It’s fun. I wrote it with middle school kids’ interests in mind, wanting to give the kids who don’t like reading something entertaining to read.

Thanks for the interview!

Learn more about Kevin Turner and read an excerpt from The Magi online:
Blog: www.kevinmturner.com
Twitter: themagiseries
Facebook: www.facebook.com/themagiseries
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/kevinmturner

Thirteen-year-old Elijah Hawk has never heard of the Magi. He knows nothing about their three thousand-year-old secret. He has never been to Savenridge, the Magi city hidden deep inside the northern woods. Most of all, Elijah is unaware of the dangers hunting him.

After one terrifying night, however, all of that changes!

On a quest to solve the horrific murder of his parents, Elijah stumbles upon the land of the Magi. Learning their ancient secrets and training with their power is the least of his problems. In order to find out why his parents were killed, Elijah learns that he must confront the dangers that are hunting him, even though it means almost certain death. What's more terrifying is discovering that his journey to this new world may not have been an accident after all.

Saturday Snatch: Larklight by Phillip Reeve

2011-12-03T11:00:00.001-08:00

Larklight is the first book in a Steampunk / Sci-Fi trilogy that includes Starcross and Mothstorm, by Phillip Reeve, author of The Mortal Engines series, and illustrated by David Wyatt.

Larklight is a classic English adventure story . . . that takes place in space! 'A rousing tale of dauntless pluck in the farthest reaches of space', this book is definitely a favorite on my shelf! Not to mention the fantastic illustrations. :)
For a chapter offered on the Larklight website-
~*Larklight Chapter 1*~
And for the Amazon excerpt-
~*Larklight Chapters 1-2*~
So have fun with these, guys! And tell me what you think. :)

Giveaway: The Alloy of Law by Brandon Sanderson Audio Book

2011-11-23T18:29:00.001-08:00

A big thanks to the generous folks over at Macmillan Audio for supporting this giveaway!!
I really enjoyed The Alloy of Law by Brandon Sanderson, and I'm very pleased to be giving away an audio copy today.
Here's my review.

So, who's excited?

*Giveaway*(US Only)
(Nov.23-Dec.1)

One audio copy of The Alloy of Law by Brandon Sanderson from Macmillan Audio

-You must be a follower of this blog to enter

For extra entries:

-Tweet about this giveaway with Macmillan Audio and leave link

-Visit Macmillan Audio and tell me the two books you're most thankful for this year that they have. Is that coherent? :)

The winner we be chosen at 12:00 a.m. on Dec 2, at which point they will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Book Review: The Alloy of Law by Brandon Sanderson

2011-11-22T16:32:00.001-08:00

The Alloy of Law takes place in the Mistborn world years after the end of the trilogy. And while it introduces a whole new cast of characters, Sanderson has made it known that this book isn't the start of the Modern Day Mistborn Trilogy he's promised, but rather a side novel, and could feasibly be read without knowledge of the Mistborn Trilogy.
Cover Blurb:
Three hundred years after the events of the Mistborn trilogy, Scadrial is on the verge of modernity, with railroads to supplement the canals, electric lighting in the streets and the homes of the wealthy, and the first steel-framed skyscrapers racing for the clouds.
Kelsier, Vin, Elend, Sazed, Spook, and the rest are now part of history—or religion. Yet even as science and technology are reaching new heights, the old magics of Allomancy and Feruchemy continue to play a role in this reborn world. Out in the frontier lands known as the Roughs, they are crucial tools for the brave men and women attempting to establish order and justice.
One such is Waxillium Ladrian, a rare Twinborn who can Push on metals with his Allomancy and use Feruchemy to become lighter or heavier at will. After twenty years in the Roughs, Wax has been forced by family tragedy to return to the metropolis of Elendel. Now he must reluctantly put away his guns and assume the duties and dignity incumbent upon the head of a noble house. Or so he thinks, until he learns the hard way that the mansions and elegant tree-lined streets of the city can be even more dangerous than the dusty plains of the Roughs.

Though not the epic fantasy we've seen from Sanderson before, this book didn't disappoint!

I loved the snap and crack dialogue between Wax (main character) and Wayne (his sidekick), and even if at some points it was taken to cheesiness, it kept the conversation lively. Wayne was an extremely quirky character. I was in snickers a great deal when reading of him. Wax was the stereotypical Knight-in-Shining-Armor and his inner demons gave depth to his actions. On top of that, Marasi (who often played the Damsel-in-Distress) wasn't a complete airhead.

Characters: 4.5 Stars

Guns and Fantasy don't usually mix, but in the case of this book they clicked perfectly! It was exhilarating to watch a battle scene unfold in which the protagonist is firing coins using Allomancy powers and dodging bullets as he flies across the room. There was Intrigue in high levels and a crime to be uncovered, giving this read a classic Mystery feel that I rather liked. Alas :), as is so characteristic of Sanderson, the plot was mostly tied up a few pages from the end, but then (in those

last pages) he knocked me to the floor! It will not be out for a long, long time, but I will be one of those crazy fanatics camped outside the bookstore for a week in an attempt to get the sequel.

Plot: 5 Stars
Brandon Sanderson has built an entire universe for his books, and it was amazing to see how the Alloy of Law fit perfectly into a niche he had created years ago. The development was entirely natural, and I was engrossed in how it related with the Mistborn Trilogy.
Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 4.8 Stars
Source: Amazon
Genre: Fantasy
YA/Adult Fiction

Subnote: See a recent Saturday Snatch for the link to an excerpt. :)

Book Review: The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

2011-11-21T14:53:00.001-08:00

The Thief is the Newbery Honor winning first book in a series with four out and a fifth planned.
Cover Blurb:

The most powerful advisor to the King of Sounis is the magus. He's not a wizard, he's a scholar, an aging solider, not a thief. When he needs something stolen, he pulls a young thief from the King's prison to do the job for him.

Gen is a thief and proud of it. When his bragging lands him behind bars he has one chance to win his freedom-- journey to a neighboring kingdom with the magus, find a legendary stone called Hamiathes's Gift and steal it.

The magus has plans for his King and his country. Gen has plans of his own.

This book has definitely just hit my Top Ten Favorites, Ever! Completely MIND BLOWING! Yes, in CAPS.
Many, many books have well-rounded characters, but there is usually just the tiniest detail that reminds you the characters are just words on a page. I did not get the smallest suggestion of that from this book. To be blunt, they acted like real people in every sense of dialogue and action. Gen, the main character, had so many layers, discovering them kept me excited and on my toes. And the supporting characters were each unique and and had important roles to play.
Characters: 5 Stars
From the start of the book, the plot was engaging, and the interest was non-stop. Every scene furthered the story instead of filling paper. But the ending, oh the ending! The ending grabbed me by the collar, tied me in a knot, punched me to the floor, then whipped that floor right out from under me. I totally did NOT see that coming! I immediately re-read the book to see if things added up. Turner is a master of foreshadowing. :)
Plot: 5 Stars (a big 5 Stars)
Megan Turner was able to unfold an entire world and its characters without any of the dreaded info dumping. Everything flowed naturally as if I were there, watching it for myself. And though I could sense a definite style, it didn't interfere with the plot and character developments.
Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 5 Stars
Source: Library
Genre: Fantasy/Adventurish?
YA Fiction

Author Site:
Megan Whalen Turner

Subnote: See last week's Saturday Snatch for an excerpt. :)

Saturday Snatch: The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

2011-11-19T09:09:00.001-08:00

The Thief is a Newbery Honor book by award winning author Megan Whalen Turner and the first in a series with four books out and a fifth planned.

I'm actually reading this book to review right now, and I'm loving it so much I wanted to share it with all of you, my wonderful blog readers!
First four chapters-
~*The Thief*~
Tell me what you think! :)

Top Ten Tuesday: Books That Have Been On My Shelf the Longest But That I've Never Read

2011-11-13T15:40:00.001-08:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a fabulous weekly meme hosted by Broke and Bookish! Every week they post a new topic of Top Tens to answer, and anyone can join.
This week's Top Ten is Books That Have Been On My Shelf the Longest But That I've Never Read, and Holy Cow! There are way more than ten of these on my shelf! I must admit that I am a person very strongly drawn by a beautiful cover. After all, who isn't? So many of the books I haven't read are very blandly covered, or they were a library discard and so the cover is no longer legible. Hmm . . . Which ones are my Top Ten?

Top Ten is Books That Have Been On My Shelf the Longest But That I've Never Read

1. The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde (play)

I loved the movie for this one! I'm not sure how true to the book it was, but it was fabulous!

2.Les Miserables by Victor Hugo

I'm sure I'll read it eventually.

3. The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

This one sounds so interesting! But, yet again, I never had time.

4. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

I really enjoyed the beginning of this book. Umm ...

5. Hard Times by Charles Dickens

I've had good recommendations for this one. Someday I'll follow through.

6. Emma by Jane Austen

It been on my TBR list. I keep bumping it down.

7. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

I tried reading this one. But it was years ago, and, well, I got bored.

8. The Calender Papers by Cynthia Voigt

It's a Newberry Honor book, and I know they have wide range, but one day I'll get to it. :)

9. The Three Musketeers by Alexadre Dumas

I started this one too. But life got busy and I sort of forgot about it.

10. Old Yeller by Fred Gipson

I think I'm cheating a teeny bit on this one. I have distant memories of a read-aloud long, long ago, and I'm almost sure I know the plot. That counts, right?

Okay! That about sums it up. Any recommendations as to which to read first?

Book Review: Goliath by Scott Westerfeld

2011-11-13T13:56:00.001-08:00

Goliath is the third and final book in the steampunk series that started with Leviathan and continued with Behemoth.
Cover Blurb:
Alek and Deryn are on the last leg of their round-the-world quest to end World War I, reclaim Alek’s throne as prince of Austria, and finally fall in love. The first two objectives are complicated by the fact that their ship, the Leviathan, continues to detour farther away from the heart of the war (and crown). And the love thing would be a lot easier if Alek knew Deryn was a girl. (She has to pose as a boy in order to serve in the British Air Service.) And if they weren’t technically enemies.

The tension thickens as the Leviathan steams toward New York City with a homicidal lunatic on board: secrets suddenly unravel, characters reappear, and nothing is at it seems in this thunderous conclusion to Scott Westerfeld’s brilliant trilogy.

For being fifty-second on hold for this book at the library, the time sure went fast! I'm half convinced that everyone ahead of me gave up and bought the book. However, I persevered, and now I finally have it. :)
The characters in this book kept true to how they were portrayed in both the first and second books of trilogy. I could clearly see how Alek had developed in confidence while still clinging to the earnestness that made him so likable, while Deryn remained the cocky one of the pair and overcame every conflict courageously Borvil, the perspicacious Loris-probably my favorite character- grew more perspicacious and quirky every day! I did feel that some of the minor characters were rather repetitive. But, overall, they blended fairly well.
Characters: 4.7 Stars
In most series, the last book may be too late to bring in an almost completely new character and story line, but Goliath pulled it off with style. Fitting in with the theme of Leviathan and Behemoth, there was a new exciting goal to accomplish. And, spoilers withheld, I can say that a big secret is revealed to most of the characters, adding several wild ups and downs. I had some issue with the ending, as it felt that the plot line lost sight of the big goal and settled for something less the the story was capable of. But it did leave them in a good place and tied up most of the loose ends.
Characters: 4.3 Stars
Scott Westerfeld has an enchanting style that brings his worlds to reality. I loved the phrases, such as "barking spiders" that made his characters so endearing. His alternate history was very authentic, and the steampunk spin on World War I created a setting that had me hooked!
Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 4.7
Source: Library
Genre: Steampunkish?
YA Fiction

Subnote: Goliath is scattered with beautiful, detailed illustrations done by Keith Thompson!
Sub-subnote: See my review of Leviathan here. :)

Saturday Snatch: The Alloy of Law by Brandon Sanderson

2011-11-12T10:07:00.001-08:00

The Alloy of Law is Brandon Sanderson's most recent stand-alone novel set in the future of his Mistborn world.

In honor of The Alloy of Law's recent release, I thought I'd feature the first six chapters that Tor is offering as today's Saturday Snatch! I did go to the release party, but unfortunately had to leave before I could get a copy. But I'm ordering it from Amazon today . . . Along with Inheritance by Christopher Paolini. Eeeek!
Okay, have fun with these and let me know what you think! :)
~*The Alloy of Law*~

November Giveaway Hop

2011-11-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the November Giveaway Hop hosted by Inspired Kathy at I Am a Reader Not a Writer and Tristi Pinkston. Thanks guys! What a way to celebrate November and gear up for the big season ahead, right?
I'll keep this one fairly simple~

*Giveaway*(US ONLY)

I'll be giving away a $10 email gift-card to Amazon!

-You MUST be a follower to enter this giveaway.

-For an extra entry, tweet a link to this giveaway, and leave link.

-I'll pick a winner randomly on November 12 at 12:00 a.m. the winner will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Ok, go ahead and fill out the form, and thanks for stopping by :)

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Saturday Snatch: Divergent by Veronica Roth

2011-11-05T17:40:00.000-07:00

Divergent is a debut dystopian book from exciting author Veronica Roth.

I really have to apologise for the late post. Goodness, where did the day go!! But here's the link to a good chunk of the book, thanks to Harper Teen!

~*Divergent*~

I actually haven't read this excerpt yet, I was planning on reading it tonight. :) Please, Please! Let me know if there is any content I should be aware of. Hope you enjoy! :)

Tell me what you think in the comments.

Book Review: The Far Side of Evil by Sylvia Engdahl

2011-11-02T20:06:00.000-07:00

Cover Blurb:
          Elana, newly graduated from the Federation Anthropological Service Academy, is sent immediately into danger on the planet Toris-a world poised on the brink of nuclear war. She is ordered to merely observe, and must not reveal her alien origin or interfere with the planet's natural course of evolution. But how can she stand by and watch? Her fellow agent, Randil, is not properly trained to work in the field, and his compassion for the Torisians may lead him to intervene. Yet his very actions may bring about the holocaust that he is so desperately trying to prevent. Elana must make a crucial decision: side with a renegade agent, or stop him at any cost. . . .

        "[A] surprising, haunting, poetic book ...full of provocative philosophical and psychological questions as well as tense adventure and romance." -Commonweal

           I couldn't have said it better! Mind-blowing book!
                   Elana is such a gorgeous character for me because I can really look up to her. She was everything and more the hero is meant to be. In a few situations, she would have been completely justified in lashing out at others, but she always went for the greater good, and she didn't come across as snooty at all! Though Elana was much older in this book, I could still see the personality that I so loved in The Enchantress From the Stars. Randil and Kari were very well defined and interesting. It was possible to understand where they were coming from, and how their experiences had shaped them.
Characters: 5 Stars
               Can I just say, it took every last ounce of will in my being not to skip ahead and read the end! Riveting from the very first pages, The Far Side of Evil is pure Sci-Fi while still exploring the contours of an oppressed society. Several unexpected twist and turns. To be cliche, I was on the edge of my seat till the last pages! I do wish the ending had been a little stronger, but it tied things up quite nicely while still leaving the reader room for imagination.
Plot: 5 Stars
               This book posed so many philosophical questions that kept my mind working for some time after I finished. It reads more towards an older audience than The Enchantress From the Stars, but could possibly be classified as YA. The Far Side of Evil is written as a diary, in a style that left the future unknown. I loved it!
Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 5 Stars
Source: From Author For Review
Genre: Sci-Fi
YA/Adult Fiction

Author Site: Sylvia Engdahl Where you can learn a ton about her books!
Twitter: @SylviaEngdahl

Subnote: See my review of The Enchantress From the Stars HERE. :)

Winners

2011-11-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

And we have some winners! Chosen by Random.org, these are the winners to both the Spooktacular Giveaway Hop and The Death Cure giveaway. So, without further ado, drumroll . . .

baugh20724-The Death Cure

Carol Thompson-$15 Book

Thanks to all who entered! I had a fabulous time! Check back November 8-11 for the fall giveaway hop! :)

Saturday Snatch: Supernaturally by Kierstan White

2011-10-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Supernaturally is the second book in the New York Times bestselling series that started with Paranormalcy.

So umm ...I'm sorry for doing second-books two weeks in row but these books are so fun! :)Normally I'd consider paranormal books rather dark, but this series is so happy/bouncy that I really wanted to put it on the radar for those of you who haven't read it!

Cover Blurb of Paranormalcy:

Evie’s always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals’ glamours.
But Evie’s about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.
So much for normal.

Here's the link to the first eight chapters of Supernaturally. Tell me what you think!
~*Supernaturally*~

Book Review: The Magi by Kevin Turner

2011-10-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

          The Magi is the debut book of author Kevin Turner.
Cover blurb:
          Thirteen-year-old Elijah Hawk has been on the move ever since the night his family was murdered. His unique sense of instinct saves his life on that horrible night, but he has the feeling that since then, he is being followed. Suddenly, during a rather awful stay at a northern boarding school, Elijah stumbles upon a secret world. The world of the Magi.
          He learns that the Magi are a simple people with a very complex power. They agree to look after Elijah and let him train with their power as long as he promises to use it only to protect others. But when a powerful group of men storm the Magi city and demand that Elijah be handed over, who will protect him?

What an exciting book! This read gave me the same thrill and satisfaction as the first Harry Potter.
        Elijah (main character) really came to life for me. Often in fantasy books, the hero is made of iron, and only slightly affected by sadness. But when Elijah experiences his own tragedy, his grief was very realistic. I would liked to have seen Elijah's friends, Samuel and Hannah, developed a bit more, but I really enjoyed reading Paul, who was a perfectly loyal rascal. Elijah's mentor, Olivia, came across as very majestic, and I loved the Roddick's two girls. They were quirky and so cute!
Characters: 4 Stars
        From the very first page, this book catapulted me into action after action, and added a fun, new spin on an old piece of culture. The secrets promised delivered to the full extent, and throughout the whole book, I got the feeling that Turner wasn't going to take the easy way out! I'll eagerly be awaiting the sequel!
Plot: 4 Stars
        I could tell this was a first book, and sometimes it was a little hard to follow, but overall, I was very impressed! The world was very cohesive, and loose ends that may have been forgotten in other books, were neatly tied up! :)
Style: 3.9 Stars

Rating: 4 Stars
Source: From Author For Review
Genre: Fantasy/Action
YA Fiction

Author Site: The Magi Series
Twitter:         @TheMagiSeries
Facebook:     TheMagiSeries

Subnote: The first five chapters of The Magi are offered on the Author Site, and I highly recommend you check them out! :)

Spooktacular Giveaway Hop

2011-10-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

*THIS CONTEST IS CLOSED*

Yay! It's Halloween! To celebrate, I'm participating in a giveaway hop! The Spooktacular Giveaway Hop is hosted by Inspired Kathy at I Am a Reader Not a Writer and Rhianna at The Diary of a Bookworm. For this hop hundreds of blogs have linked up to bring you fantastic giveaways to celebrate this spooky season. :)

*Giveaway*

I'll be giving away up to $15 worth of books from the Book Depository. Since they currently do not offer gift cards, I'll be ordering the winner's book-of-choice personally.

I'm going to keep this one really easy to enter.

Rules of Entrace: I ask that you please be a follower for this giveaway.

For an extra entry, tweet a link to this contest!

That's it! The winner will be chosen at midnight on October 31. If the winner doesn't respond within 48 hours, a different winner will be chosen.

Thanks for stopping by, and have fun with the other Spooktacular giveaways! :)
Be sure to check out my giveaway for a signed copy of James Dashner's The Death Cure here. :)

Saturday Snatch: The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

2011-10-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

    The Son of Neptune is the second book in a New York Times bestselling series that takes places after the Percy Jackson series ends. Written by Rick Riordan, it features old characters in addition to a whole new cast!
        I've read The Lost Hero, the first book, and absolutely loved it! I might even say I enjoyed it more than the Percy Jackson series!

To give you some background-
Cover Blurb for The Lost Hero:
          Jason has a problem. He doesn’t remember anything before waking up on a school bus holding hands with a girl. Apparently she’s his girlfriend Piper, his best friend is a kid named Leo, and they’re all students in the Wilderness School, a boarding school for “bad kids.” What he did to end up here, Jason has no idea—except that everything seems very wrong.

          Piper has a secret. Her father has been missing for three days, and her vivid nightmares reveal that he’s in terrible danger. Now her boyfriend doesn’t recognize her, and when a freak storm and strange creatures attack during a school field trip, she, Jason, and Leo are whisked away to someplace called Camp Half-Blood. What is going on?

          Leo has a way with tools. His new cabin at Camp Half-Blood is filled with them. Seriously, the place beats Wilderness School hands down, with its weapons training, monsters, and fine-looking girls. What’s troubling is the curse everyone keeps talking about, and that a camper’s gone missing. Weirdest of all, his bunkmates insist they are all—including Leo—related to a god.

     Today's excerpt is very short, but I hope you enjoy!
         ~The Son of Neptune~

Let me know what you think! :)

Book Review: Enchantress From the Stars by Sylvia Louise Engdahl

2011-10-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

Cover Blurb:
          The Federation Anthropological Service would never officially have allowed Elana to be on this mission to the medieval planet Andrecia. If Youngling peoples found out that a supremely advanced and enlightened society like the Federation existed, it would irreparably damage their evolution. Stowing away aboard her father's ship, Elana suddenly becomes the key to a dangerous plan to turn back the invasion of Andrecia by an aggressive, space-faring Youngling civilization. How can she possibly help the Andrecians, who still believe in magic and superstition, against a force armed with advanced technology -- without revealing her alien powers?
          Apprentice medical officer Jarel wishes that the planet the Imperial Exploration Corps has chosen to colonize didn't have a "humanoid" population already living on it. The invaders don't consider the Andrecians to be human, and Jarel has seen the atrocious treatment the natives get from his people. How can he make a difference, when he alone regrets the destruction that his people bring?
Georyn, youngest son of a poor Andrecian woodcutter, knows only that there is a terrible dragon on the other side of the enchanted forest, and he is prepared to do whatever it takes to defeat it. In his mind, Elana is the Enchantress from the Stars who has come to test him, to prove he is worthy of defeating the dragon and its powerful minions. Despite both Elana's and Jarel's inner turmoil, Georyn's burden is by far the heaviest. Ultimately, he must pit his innocent faith in the magic of his Enchantress from the Stars against foes who have come from a world beyond his comprehension.

          I thought the cover was beautiful, though unassuming, but after reading the blurb above, you see why I had to follow my hunch and pick up this book. Turned out, my hunch was completely right! This isn't really the type of book you rave about (however I may rave--as that is what I do with books )it's more the variety that leaves you thinking and makes a lasting impression.
          The characters were well thought through. And though I felt Elana (main character) acted a little young for her age, by the end I could see clearly how she'd matured to view life in a better way. Georyn came through as the slightly wide-eyed innocent he was meant to be. And the interactions between them felt utterly natural.
Characters: 5 Stars
           And what a wonder-full/mysterious plot! An interesting mix between Sci-Fi and Fantasy that Sylvia Engdahl pulled off marvelously! It was a cohesive story that represented a section in Elana's life. And I recognized that this was only a very small portion of something much bigger. The fate of a world did rest on her shoulders, but it was refreshing to read a story about growing better and fighting for what is right, even in the little things.
Plot: 5 Stars
           Switching between first-person POW with Elana and a classic rendition of Georyn's side of things, it was quite enjoyable to discover how they each viewed different phenomena--such as the giant machine that Georyn sees as a horrendous, fire-breathing dragon. Pushing Elana through difficulties she'd never before considered, and showing how those choices apply to life in general, was extremely thought-provoking and gave more hope for the future.
Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 5 Stars
Source: Library
Genre: Sci-Fi /Fantasy
YA Fiction

Author Site: Sylvia Engdahl

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-10-19T05:14:00.000-07:00

Waiting on Wednesday is an exciting, weekly event hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This event spotlights books you're dying to read.

I detest waiting. Probably the number one reason I enjoy Waiting on Wednesday so much is the opportunity to vent some of my waiting-frustration on others. :) This week's book that has me out of my mind!!!!!!!! with excitement is Christopher Paolini's Inheritance. Thankfully I only have to wait one more nail-biting month to read the conclusion to this cycle that started with Eragon.

          Not so very long ago, Eragon—Shadeslayer, Dragon Rider—was nothing more than a poor farm boy, and his dragon, Saphira, only a blue stone in the forest. Now the fate of an entire civilization rests on their shoulders.
          Long months of training and battle have brought victories and hope, but they have also brought heartbreaking loss. And still, the real battle lies ahead: they must confront Galbatorix. When they do, they will have to be strong enough to defeat him. And if they cannot, no one can. There will be no second chances.
         The Rider and his dragon have come further than anyone dared to hope. But can they topple the evil king and restore justice to Alagaësia? And if so, at what cost?
         This is the much-anticipated, astonishing conclusion to the worldwide bestselling Inheritance cycle.

   See what I mean? I fell in love with this series from the beginning, and can't wait!

Check out to join the linky or see other fabulous blogs participating! :)

*Be sure to go to my Giveaways page to enter for a signed copy of The Death Cure- a book a waited an entire two years for! Every since the first book, The Maze Runner by James Dashner, came out :)

Top Ten Tuesday: Books Whose Titles or Covers Made Me Buy

2011-10-17T17:36:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly feature/meme held by the fabulous people over at Broke and Bookish every Tuesday. Each week they put up a new Top Ten list, and anyone can join in!

I have yet another confession to make. I know, I know, stop it with the confessions already. Right? But for the sake of the post, you have to know this one. I usually buy . . . maybe a total of three books a year, and very rarely are those books I haven't already read from the library. I'm a very picky reader. So I'm going to slightly change this list to mean Books Whose Titles or Covers Made Me Read.

Books Whose Titles or Covers Made Me Buy

1. Farworld by J. Scott Savage

Done by Brandon Dorman, this is an absolutely stunning cover of green-skinned, blue-haired water elementals, set against a roaring, white-fringed wave. I snatched it up immediately!

2. The 13th Reality by James Dashner

Also done by Brandon Dorman, this cover was easy on the eye, but still portrayed action-packed content. I've always been interested in the theory of realities so the title really got me.

3. Tris and Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison

Dramatically romantic. Simply beautiful cover.

4. Ice by Sarah Beth Durst

The one-word title, and the ice-color themed cover, with the shiny silver title, really grabbed my eye!

5. The Sisters Grimm by Michael Buckley

I'd heard of the Brother's Grimm, who hadn't? So the difference in this title perked my interest. I looked it up as soon as I could get to a library.

6. The Maze Runner by James Dashner*

The view took my breathe away!

7. Evil Genius by Catherine Jinks

The simplicity of this cover yanked my interest. I opened the book and started reading right then.

8. The King in the Window by Adam Gopnik

Gold gilding, and small stars dust this cover, giving it a dream-like quality.

9. Dreamquake by Elizabeth Knox

What a fascinating title! Instantly teases my curiosity. What in the world could a dreamquake be?

10. Betrayel by Aaron Allston

I do love a good Star Wars now and again, and so would have read the book in any case. But the contrast of the cover- a bright green light-saber, with a glow cast against a haunted face, had me running to read it!

Be sure to stop by Broke and Bookish for a list of other fantastic blogs participating in Top Ten Tuesday!

*Check out my Giveaways page to enter for a signed copy of James Dashner's The Death Cure, the third book in The Maze Runner trilogy! :)

Book Review: The Death Cure by James Dashner

2011-10-17T12:30:00.000-07:00

The Death Cure is the third and final book of The Maze Runner trilogy by the New York Times bestselling author James Dashner.
           Cover Blurb:
      Thomas knows that WICKED can't be trusted. They stole his memories and locked him inside the Maze. Thete forced him to the brink of death by dropping him in the wilds of the Scorch, and they took the Gladers, his only friends, from him.
      Now WICKED says that the time for lies is over. That they've collected all the data they can from the Trials and will rely on the Gladers, with full memories restored, to help them with their ultimate mission: to complete the blueprint for the cure for the Flare. But Thomas must undergo one final test.
        What WICKED doesn't know, however, is that Thomas has already remembered far more than they think. And it's enough to prove that he can't believe a word of what WICKED says.
         The time for lies is over. And the truth is more dangerous than Thomas could ever have imagined.

Will Anyone Survive The Death Cure?

The previous books in this series left me flabbergasted, and this one was no different. What a powerful ending! Like most dystopians, it doesn't end with everyone leaping for joy, but you feel safe leaving Thomas and his friends where they are. James Dashner is a mad genius!

I'm always a bit nervous reading the last book in a series, worried that the author will do something completely wrong and ruin the characters. But there was no hint of that in this book. The characters were true to how they were portrayed in The Maze Runner. And though the events in The Death Cure take place only a couple of weeks later, I could see how they had grown and developed through their experiences. It did bother me how Teresa was much less involved in this book than in any of the others, but Brenda came in, filling her place.

Characters: 4.9 Stars

The plot in this book took a completely unexpected turn! The future I foresaw was one of dreary scientific work for the Flare cure, but Dashner was able to keep the extreme action and suspense going until the very end, where you see Thomas and his friends safely settled, and finally--peace.

Plot: 5 Stars

Those of you who have read the preceding books will understand when I guarantee-at the risk of sounding cliche-that these books will literally keep you up all night reading, and then all night thinking. James Dashner's books portray the thrill of mystery, the suspense of horror, and the touch of romance that made this book one of my absolute favorites.

Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Bookstore

Genre: Dystopian/Suspense

YA Fiction

Subnote: Sorry for the sparse review! Way too many spoilers to avoid! :)

Make sure you check out the Giveaways page for a giveaway of The Death Cure :)

Saturday Snatch: Goliath by Scott Westerfeld

2011-10-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

               This week's featured snatch is Goliath by Scott Westerfeld. It's the third and final book in the series that started with Leviathan and included Behemoth.
               I've been dying to get my hands on this book, but haven't been able to yet! Unfortunately I've used up my funds for books and I'm fifty-second on hold for it at the library. So I was very excited when I learned that Simon & Schuster was offering the first nine chapters online! Along with the beautiful illustrations :)
               If you scroll down on this page, you will see the first chapter. However, if you click on the cover of the book, you'll be taken to an eCopy with the full excerpt.

~Goliath Excerpt~

               Well, enjoy! And be sure to tell me what you think down below. :)

The Death Cure Release Party

2011-10-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

First off, the party was fabulous. I got there and bought my books, then headed down the street to a gorgeous gallery where the event was being held. James Dashner held a wonderful Q&A session. And I shot some video for you guys! . . .But . . .Um . . . It didn't turn out. Sorry. Most of the questions though, I believe, can be found in a few of his interviews.
After his presentation, the group (about 2-300 all together) treked back to the shop and got in line. It was a pretty big line.
As I was towards the end of the line, I waited for about an hour and a half . . .

(Sorry for the blurry quality)

But James Dashner was wonderful, taking time to make the experience memorable for each fan while still moving quickly. He is one of the nicest guys on the planet.

Needless to say, I finished The Death Cure that night, and I promise you, the ending is very strong. Oh boy is it strong! Any who have read it, please tell me what you think!

I'll probably post a review in one of the coming days.

Be sure to check out my giveaway of a signed copy of The Death Cure down below! :)

Giveaway: The Death Cure

2011-10-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

*THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED*

Guys, GUYS! The Death Cure by James Dashner came out today! Aaaaaackkkkk!!!! I've been dying for this book ever since The Scorch Trials, that's almost a year!!!!! I've been bouncing around and squealing at random intervals all day. However, I am refraining from getting my copy right now so I can get a copy at the release party tonight. Yes, I'm going to the release party, and those of you in the Utah area can go to!

This website has more info.

To those of you who live too far away (cause really, what other excuse could you have?) I weep a thousand months in commiseration.

But I'm still so happy to be going that I will pick up an extra copy to send to one of my followers, and hopefully it will be signed :) So-

*Giveaway*

-US only-(sorry guys)

You must be a follower to enter this giveaway.

Just leave a comment below with your email address, telling me why you would love to win a signed copy of James Dashner's The Death Cure. If you don't feel comfortable leaving your email, go ahead and send it to pomegranatesunrise (at) gmail (dot) com. Feel free to contact me if you have any more questions :)

The Giveaway will run until October 31st at midnight. Tell your fellow Dashner fans!

Post with pictures from the party coming on Thursday.

HELP GUYS! How am I going to wait a whole 3 1/2 hours?! *hyperventilates*

The Death Cure Release

2011-10-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

Typing this from my iTouch, so I shall be brief, but GUYS!!!!! The Death Cure by James Dashner comes out tonight at midnight!!!! I smell a giveaway in the air. More details coming soon:)

Book Review: Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

2011-10-09T15:27:00.000-07:00

              Leviathan is a steampunk alternate history set around the time of the World War I outbreak.
Cover Blurb:
It is the cusp of World War I, and all the European powers are arming up. The Austro-Hungarians and the Germans have their Clankers, steam-driven iron machines loaded with guns and ammunition. The British Darwinists employ fabricated animals as their weaponry. Their Leviathan is a whale airship, and the most masterful beast in the British fleet.
       Aleksandar Ferdinand, prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, is on the run. His own people have turned on him. His title is worthless. All he has is a battle-torn Stormwalker and a loyal crew of men.
       Deryn Sharp is a commoner, a girl disguised as a boy in the British Air Service. She's a brilliant airman. But her secret is is constant danger of being discovered.
       With the Great War brewing, Alek's and Deryn's paths cross in the most unexpected way . . . taking them both aboard the Leviathan on a fantastical, around-the-world adventure. One that will change both their lives forever.

       What a satisfying book! This is the first steampunk book I've read, and I can safely say it definitely won't be the last!
        The characters had me hooked from the beginning! Alek was charming and brave. Though I could sense the uppitiness he held from his upbringing, he was in no way snooty and was really someone I could respect (an absolute must for me). Deryn was sharp and engaging-- a daredevil female that really spiced her side of the story up. The background characters were unique, and held depth in their own right. Very well done on characters!
Characters: 5 Stars
         The plot held just the right balance between action-packed and reflective. I felt their was time to get to know the characters and situations without falling into boredom. It was easy to follow and completely believable! (An amazing feat when considering the fabricated animals used by the Darwinists) In addition, the ending held enough answers to tie up the book, but left enough questions to have me running for the sequel.
Plot: 4.5 Stars
         I love the way Scott Westerfeld added style to this book! Leviathan switches between Alek and Deryn's stories, yet I could sense freshness on Deryn's side and determination on Alek's. It added a great deal of variety, and gave the book enough momentum to carry through to the end.
Style: 5 Stars

Rating: 4.8 Stars
Source: Library
Genre: Steampunk/Adventure/Hint of Fantasy?
YA Fiction

Subnote: Keith Thompson filled the visual version of the book with gorgeous illustrations! :)

Saturday Snatch: Awakening by Brandon Sanderson

2011-10-08T09:26:00.000-07:00

Guess what . . . It's Saturday!!! I LOVE Saturdays!!!! In view of that, I've decided to start a new feature on this blog called Saturday Snatch. Ever Saturday I will link to a book excerpt being offered online, either by the author or the publisher.

To start us off in style, our first snatch will be (drum roll .....) Infinity Blade: Awakening by Brandon Sanderson! Yes, the Brandon Sanderson!

As many of you know, he's written some of my favorite books, so when I saw he had a new one out I was sooooooooooo excited!

Infinity Blade: Awakening is an ebook set to bridge the gap between the first and second Infinity Blade iPhone/iPad games. You can see the author's blog post about it HERE.

        And the best part is he has a big excerpt up of the entire prologue and first two chapters! But a warning, they end on such a cliffhanger you'll have to buy the book :)
        Infinity Blade: Awakening, Prologue
        Infinity Blade:Awakening, Chapter 1
        Infinity Blade: Awakening, Chapter 2
Hope you enjoy! Be sure to leave a comment telling me what you think.

Book Review: Tris and Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison

2011-10-06T17:37:00.000-07:00

     Tris and Izzie is modern retelling of the legend of Tristan and Iseult ending in a happily-ever-after. In the legend, two characters, Tristan and Iseult, take a magic love potion that leaves them deeply in love with each other till death, even though Iseult is already married to someone else. The different versions are unclear whether the potion was taken intentionally, or accidental, but they usually end in tragedy, with one or another of the lovers dying in unfortunate circumstances, and the other dying of heartbreak. For the Wikipedia article on the legend click HERE.
Cover Blurb:
         "I'd always thought of Mark as blond, but not compared to this guy, whose hair was white-blond. He had these amazingly blue eyes that looked like they had to be enhanced by contact lenses, because that color couldn't be real. He wasn't as tall as Mark, but he seemed taller, the way he drew attention to himself. And he had this huge, dazzling smile that was like a nuclear reactor compared to Mark's warm grin.
         "I hated that smile, and I hated that it made me compare him to Mark. Who did he think he was smiling at me like that? And why did he seem so at ease? Apparently, this was his first day at Tintagel, but he acted like he was king of the whole school. I have never liked arrogant guys. I felt hot with anger."
"Izzie, this is Tristan," said Mark.
           Izzie loves Mark. He's the perfect boyfriend: kind and loving and handsome, and he's the captain of the basketball team. Meanwhile, Izzie's friend Branna loves somebody, but she won't say who. So when a hot new guy, Tristan, shows up at school, who better for Izzie to fix up her friend with? And what better way to do it that with a love philtre?
           But love philtres are tricky, and Izzie finds she's accidentally fallen in love with Tristan herself. And that's a problem. First of all there's Mark, and second, there are the supernatural creatures that keep attacking whenever Tristan is around. It's bad enough she has two guys, and Branna has none, now Izzie has to fight for her life?

         When I saw the breathtakingly beautiful cover, and read the intriguing blurb, I made the biggest mistake of all mistakes.
           I judged a book by its cover.
            There. I admit it. But looking at the picture above you must agree that I was well justified. However, this book ended up being a big disappointment to me.
         The characters didn't really click. It probably wasn't the author's intent, but Izzie seemed to be selfish and small-minded. She was frequently rude to Mark, her boyfriend, and though she sometimes seemed to regret it in her mind, she never expressed this regret to Mark as an apology. She seemed to regret her rudeness more because it meant she must not love Mark anymore, instead of regretting it because it hurt Mark. The supporting characters' traits were fuzzy, and their reactions didn't feel real. Huge events were dismissed out of hand as the characters focused on petty subjects. I did like the loyalty Tristan, Izzie's love interest, showed his parents, but, overall, the characters were flat and unbelievable.
Characters: 1 Star
            The first chapters had a very repeatative feel to them. Most of the plot was focused on Izzie trying to hang onto Mark while her feelings were for Tristan, with only a relatively small part centered on defeating the villain. I enjoy romance, but I look forward to action as well, and this book didn't really provide that. The battles were stereotypical and dry. And the big surprises were obvious chapters in advance. However, an amazing idea to remake Tristan and Iseult. It was also interesting to see Izzie doomed to be in love with Tristan forever when she was only sixteen.
Plot: 1 Star
             I'm probably reading too much into this, but, as told in the first-person, the voice came across as just a bit arrogant. There was the slightest hint of superiority in the way Izzie viewed the world through her thoughts. Some of the analogies were very creative, and a few of the lines were honestly funny. But the descriptions sounded forced and it was hard to see the scenes being described as anything but drab.
Style: 1 Star

Rating: 1 Star
Source: Giveaway
Genre: Romance/Fantasy
YA Fiction (It might make a good Junior Fiction book, but there are a few passionate kissing scenes)

Subnote: Please Please Please, don't just take my word for it! And please don't dismiss this author out of hand! I've read the rest of her work and really enjoyed it, especially The Princess and the Hound. I highly suggest you guys give it a look.

Top Ten Tuesday: Endings That Left Me With My Mouth Hanging Open

2011-10-04T05:10:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a fabulous weekly event hosted over at Broke and Bookish. Every week they have a new list of Top Tens to answer.
This week's topic is Endings That Left Me With My Mouth Hanging Open. So Voilá!

Endings That Left Me With My Mouth Hanging Open

1. The Mistborn Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson

Wow. Just wow. Completely mindblowing! I thought, 'No way will his ending be able to top the books.' I have never been so completely wrong in my life!

2. The Maze Runner by James Dashner Total cliffhanger at the end! I was dying until the next book came out.

3. The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan

This is the final book in one of my favorite junior fiction series. The conclusion didn't skimp, and everything ended exactly as it should.

4. The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner

Ah, a beautiful ending. It had me squeaking with joy and eagerly awaiting The King of Attolia.

5. The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

So romantic and so charming! I've read this book over and over again, and the ending still gives me happy goosebumps!

6. The Last Battle by C. S. Lewis

Sometimes I read this book just so I can get to the ending, which sounds weird, I know. But the ending is that amazing. I wouldn't change a thing. The finale of this book leaves me happy for the rest of the day.

7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K. Rowling

Of course this book is on the list. Those of you who have read it know how it goes above and beyond the other books. This ending leaves you feeling like you've just snuggled with a fuzzy blanket, or hugged a good friend.

8. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

There has to be more to this book! It can't end that way! I mean, sure, It makes you think. But who wants to think, anyway?! Huh?! (leave a comment if you felt that way too)

9. The Messenger by Lois Lowry

A bitter/sweet ending, but fitting, considering the book. Very moving.

10. The Bartimeas Trilogy by Jonathon Stroud

Also bitter/sweet. But perfect. So perfect. Possibly my favorite.

And there you have it!

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Top Ten Tuesday: Books I Want to Reread

2011-09-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a fabulous weekly event hosted over at http://brokeandbookish.blogspot.com/ . Every week they have a new list of Top Tens to answer.
This week's topic is Books I Want to Reread. So ta da!
Top Ten Books I Want to Reread
1. The Way of Kings by Brandon SandersonThis is one of my all time favorites! It's so incredibly complex that you must reread it again and again to fully appreciate its glory.
2. Airman by Eoin Colfer
This book has a wonderfully classic feel to it. Full of action with a hint of romance it's timeless.
3. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Fairy-tale remakes are my weak spot. Give me one that's well written and creative and I'm sold.
4. The Lord of The Rings Trilogy by J. R. R. TolkienOf course this had to be on the list. Who could live without their classically epic fantasy dose every few months?
5. The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner
To those of you who have not read this GET OUT OF YOUR SEATS AND GET IT! This book deserves a full out 10 stars! Unfortunately my scale only goes to 5 stars.
6. The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. LewisI fell in love with these before I learned to read. I still love them just as much, if not more, now.
7. The Giver by Lois LowryThis book made me think. I read it again a couple months ago and it was still as entrancing as if it were a first time.
8. The Supernaturalist by Eoin ColferThis is actually the most recent book I've read. See my review of it on the reviews page.
9. The Bartimeas Trilogy by Jonathan StroudHilarious! Bartimeas is such a lovable character! I personality had me hooked, not to mention the alternate history setting.
10. Uglies by Scott WesterfeldUglies is the start of a series in a dystopian series. I've only read it once but I want to read it again so bad!

And there you have it! The Top Ten Books I Wish I Could Reread.
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http://brokeandbookish.blogspot.com/

Book Review: The Supernaturalist by Eoin Colfer

2011-09-24T16:18:00.000-07:00

Cover Blurb:

In the not-too-distant future, in a place called Satellite City, thirteen-year-old Cosmo Hill is unfortunate enough to come into the world unwanted by his parents. And so, as are all orphaned boys his age, Cosmo is dipped in a vaccine vat and sent to the Clarissa Frayne Institute for Parentally Challenged Boys — freight class.
At Clarissa Frayne, the orphans, called "no-sponsors," are put to work by the state, testing dangerous products that never should be allowed near human beings. By the time the no-sponsors are sent to their cardboard utility pipes, given their nightly meal pack, and finally fall asleep, they are often covered in burns, bruises, or sores from the work of the day.
Cosmo Hill knows that he must escape, even though he has no idea what might be waiting for him on the outside. He plans for the moment when he can make a break. When that moment finally comes, he nearly dies while escaping. But he is rescued by a gang of "Supernaturalists," a motley crew of kids who all have a special psychic ability — one that Cosmo is about to learn he has as well. They "see" supernatural Parasites — tiny, translucent creatures who feed on the life force of humans. The Supernatuarlists patrol the city at night, finding and blasting the Parasites to try and save what is left of humanity in Satellite City. Or so they think.

The young hunters soon find themselves caught in a web far worse than they could have imagined, embroiled with private police, illegal racing gangs, and a corporation cover-up, until they discover a horrifying secret that will force them to question everything they believe in.

Normally I wait a few days after reading a book to review it, but I couldn't for this one! Fantastic read! I've read most of Eoin Colfer's books an they're all high quality, but this one blew me away!

The characters had very definite personalities. From a single sentance I could tell who was talking, from Ditto's sarcastic comments, to Mona's fiesty matter-of-fact, to Stefan's driven way. I loved them all!

Characters: 5 stars

The plot kept me up till one reading. It was something I'd never seen reflections of in other books, completely new. The couple huge plot surprises were utter shocks. And despite being complete sci-fi/Fantasyish it was totally believable!

Plot: 5 stars

Eoin Colfer has a style that will sell the story to you, hook, line, and sinker. With only a few sentences he made Satellite city seem strange and depressing. He can name a futuristic object with one word and immediately the reader knows what it is. His book views the world in such a way that you can't help but fall in love with the main character, Cosmo, as he goes on a journey of heroics and self-discovery.

Style: 5 stars

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Gift

Genre: Sci-fi/Fantasy

YA Fiction

Book Review:Janitors by Tyler Whitsides

2011-09-20T18:13:00.000-07:00

Cover Blurb:

No one takes Spencer Zumbro seriously when he tries to warn his classmates about the mysterious things prowling the halls and classrooms at Welcher Elementary School. But when he sees Marv, the janitor, going after one of the creatures with a vacuum, he knows he's not the only one who can see them.

With the help of his new friend, Daisy, Spencer has to find out what the Janitors know. The children's search uncovers the magic taking place behind the scenes of their seemingly ordinary school, where a battle is being waged for the minds of the students. Who can be trusted-and can Spencer and Daisy protect their school and possibly the world?

I finally own this book!

I know what you're thinking-"What a kidder! There's no way she actually got around to buying that book, despite how much she wanted to read it."

You're right. . .

It was given to me as a gift! Books make the best presents ever!

Very well, down to business.

From the very beginning this book had me hooked. It was easy to identify with rather germophobic Spencer Zumbro, and I loved 'Gullible Gates'. I smiled so hard at their quirks, and laughed every time a predicament came up because of these. Tyler Whitesides established them as solid characters early on. Later, the Janitors, Marv, Walter, and workers of BEM, were introduced, and their characters were lovable if rather stereotypical. I thought Spencer's mom was so cool, and I liked how towards the end of the book she was involved. This is unusual for a fantasy book, but I found it to my taste.

Characters: 2.9

I always love when plots match up with the real world. It helps me imagine it could really be happening. Tyler Whitesides' idea of creatures living in a school, eating brainwaves, and keeping kids from learning was believable and fun, because it could really be out there, happening in our schools. His magic system and plot points didn't seem to flow as well as they should, but for a debut book it was surprisingly well done.

Plot: 3

The narration was charming. Simple actions were phrased in such a way that I broke up laughing at several parts. This book has strong under-themes of standing up for what you believe in. Several times throughout the book it was stressed that telling the truth is always best.
Style: 4.2

The ending was a complete cliffhanger, but still managed to tie up the novel as a whole fairly well. If you are planning on buying this book, may I suggest buying it from the author directly. Tyler Whitesides is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. This book is not a must, but if you have minute, it's definitely worth considering.

Source: Gift

Rating: 3.4

Junior Fiction

P.S. Fantastic job by Brandon Dorman on the cover! This is the type of illustration you go out and buy fifty large prints of just so you can look at it wherever you go.

Book Review: Michael Vey by Richard Paul Evans

2011-09-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

Back Cover:
“Have you found the last two?” The voice on the phone was angry and coarse, like the sound of car tires over broken glass.
“Not yet,” the well-dressed man on the other end of the phone replied. “Not yet. But we believe we’re close—and they still don’t know that we’re hunting them.”
“You believe you’re close?”
“They’re two children among a billion—finding them is like finding a lost chopstick in China.”
“Is that what you want me to tell the board?”
“Remind the board that I’ve already found fifteen of the seventeen children. I’ve put out a million-dollar bounty on the last two, we’ve got spiders crawling the Web, and we have a whole team of investigators scanning global records for their whereabouts. It’s just a matter of time before we find them—or they step into one of our traps.”
“Time isn’t on our side,” the voice returned sharply. “Those kids are already too old. You know how difficult they are to turn at this age.”
“I know better than anyone,” the well-dressed man said, tapping his ruby-capped pen on his desk. “But I have my ways. And if they don’t turn, there’s always Cell 25.”
There was a long pause, then the voice on the phone replied darkly, “Yes. There’s always Cell 25.”
© 2011 Richard Paul Evans

I must say, I was really looking forward to this book. I'd been meaning to pick it up for a while, so when I got it as a gift I was bouncing off the ceiling. And I know they say don't judge a book by its cover, but come on. How can you not with a cover this awesome?
This book is about a boy, Michael, who can produce electric "Pulses", or really big shocks. When he discovers a girl, Taylor, in his hometown who has similar gifts, they(along with Michael's best friend and super genius Ostin) start a club called the Electroclan to discover where they came from.
As they dig deeper and deeper into the past, dangerous secrets are uncovered, leading the clan to a discovery that will turn their world upside down.
My favorite character was by far Ostin. I fell in love with him from the beginning as he dealt with social awkwardness and spouted random facts. As to the rest of the characters- there were a few spots where it was hard to tell who was talking, but other than that they were fairly well-developed.
Characters: 3 stars
The plot really drew me in, and I stayed up past eleven just to find out what happened next. It was original, and exciting with almost non-stop action scenes.
Plot: 4.5 stars
Richard Evens has an engaging style that makes it fun to read, carrying you through the slow parts and into the faster ones.
Style: 4.5
All in all I really enjoyed this book. If you have a minute I highly suggest picking it up.

Source: Gift
Rating: 4 Stars