Wednesday, October 31, 2012

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater


Jacque's Review:

The Raven Boys is the first book in a planned four book series.  I really enjoyed all of the characters, but there was something missing.  Perhaps it was the third person narration, but I'm not really sure that was the problem because I enjoyed hearing the story from the different characters' perspectives.  I just never felt a true connection to the characters or the story until the last quarter of the book.

The first 270 out of 408 pages were very slow for me.  We learn about Blue, a high school girl, and her relatives who are all psychics.  We learn about "the raven boys" (Gansey, Ronan, Adam, and Noah) personal histories.  They are all from privileged families with one exception, but they are all attending a prestigious boarding school in Blue's hometown of Henrietta.

Gansey recruited all of his friends to help him explore the "ley line".  He has conducted research around the world and has come to the realization that Henrietta has the most powerful ley line and Glendower, his ultimate quest, may be buried here.  He just needs to find out where.  Their investigation breaks wide open once they meet Blue.  The closer they get to finding the ley line the more dangerous things become.  They make an unusual discovery, which directly impacts their circle of friends.  Once this discovery was made, I really started to enjoy the book.  I just wish we were given this piece of information sooner.  It shed light on many of the events that happened earlier in the book.  I actually went back and reread several sections to better appreciate and understand them.

I am anxious to see what happens in the second book.  Now that we are past all of the history and build up that was required for this story, the next book should pick up where this one left off.  There was a lot of excitement and energy the last quarter of this book, which I hope Stiefvater will be able to build upon.

Teri's Review

I was able to read part of this book on a blog tour. Unfortunately somethings happened at work and I was unable to finish it before having to send it on its way to the next person. I have been waiting patiently ever since to get my hands back on it .

I was instantly drawn into the beginning. Blue seeing Gansey on the corpse road, knowing he will die within 12 months, wondering if she will be the cause of it. What is not to love right? And the whole St Mark's day background was fascinating to me. We get to meet Gansey a bit later, along with Adam, Ronan and Noah. Tho I found all these characters interesting to some degree I found the character building and the story building a bit slow in the middle, and at sometimes confusing. Thank goodness I have a Scot/Irish husband who has a fondness for Celtic Mythology and was able to help me understand the ley lines in more simple terms.

The characters are good, even if a bit strange. A few that stood out to me were Persephone. She reminded me of Luna Lovegood of Harry Potter. Maybe it was her odd ways, or her mass of blonde hair, but everytime she spoke in the book, I heard it in Luna's soft spoken childish voice. Maybe that is why I loved her so. I admired Adam and his determination . A poor boy trying to make it in a rich boy world. I did at times, however find myself telling him to stop being so full of pride and just take Gansey up on his offer. Ronan did little for me, maybe his purpose in the story will be clearer in future books. I just sort of found him strange and weird. I loved Noah, and how Stiefvater composed his character. You really pay him no attention until a bit later in the book, but she ties him in amazingly . Maybe the star of the book is suppose to be Blue, but for me it was all Gansey. From the moment she sees him on the Corpse Road, seemingly confused and defeated I was hooked. I loved all about him, his need for knowledge, his constant journal keeping, his quest, his description of his apartment, his polo and boat shoes and even his junky Camero.
Despite the slow middle, the book really picks up about 250 pages in...about the time my Nook needed to charge ..naturally. It ends on a good note. You could totally walk away and leave it, but nope not me. I can't wait to see if Gansey finds his grail.

Sneak Peek: The Reluctant King by Rachel Higginson

I thought that I was going to pass out when I was cruising Facebook and saw this post by Rachel Higginson:


I know that you all know that I am obsessed with Rachel Higginson's series Star-crossed and now this spin off just makes it better!!

Now, that Chapter 1 and 2 are on her blog right is making me shake for the rest of the book.

Hope y'all enjoyed it as much as I did!

Click HERE to read Chapter 1 and 2~

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

On Dublin Street by Samantha Young

Goodreads Description:


Jocelyn Butler has been hiding from her past for years. But all her secrets are about to be laid bare…

Four years ago, Jocelyn left her tragic past behind in the States and started over in Scotland, burying her grief, ignoring her demons, and forging ahead without attachments. Her solitary life is working well—until she moves into a new apartment on Dublin Street where she meets a man who shakes her carefully guarded world to its core.

Braden Carmichael is used to getting what he wants, and he’s determined to get Jocelyn into his bed. Knowing how skittish she is about entering a relationship, Braden proposes an arrangement that will satisfy their intense attraction without any strings attached.

But after an intrigued Jocelyn accepts, she realizes that Braden won’t be satisfied with just mind-blowing passion. The stubborn Scotsman is intent on truly knowing her… down to the very soul.

Mary's Review:

I need to thank Kathryn Grimes from TSK TSK What To Read  for going on and on about this book.  She has just great book taste (and is a wonderful member of the Wolf Pack) that I knew that she would not steer me wrong on this.  I WAS RIGHT ... THIS BOOK WAS GREAT!!

Best part of book:  Hello, Braden!! Braden Carmichael *swoon*  I was warned by Kathryn that this was her "fictional boyfriend"  and I promised not to go after him.  However, I will lust after him (a lot!).  Jocelyn is a young woman with a very sad past, but moving to Scotland to start anew.  After being there for several years she moved to Dublin Street with her new roommate Ellie.  This is where the FUN begins!!! I love the interactions between Braden and Jocelyn.  I love that Jocelyn is very independent and knows herself, but she has to still deal with her past.  Samantha Young really knows how to tell a story.

Not so great about book: This is simple......IT WASN'T LONG ENOUGH!  I mean, Samantha Young  tells a great story and it is a quick read; however, I still wanted more Braden.  Of course, I am a bit selfish!! (hehe)

I would recommend this book to everyone!

Friday, October 26, 2012

The Color of Grace by Linda Kage

Goodreads description:

When my mother remarried after thirteen years of being a widow, I had to move to a new town and enroll in a new school. Suddenly thrust into an entirely different kind of life, I just wanted to go home. I didn’t want to meet new people, didn’t want to leave my old friends, didn’t want to become a third wheel to my mom and her husband….and I really didn’t want to see Ryder Yates again. Ugh, I still don’t know why I turned down that too-good-to-be-true boy who flirted with me when we were attending separate schools. 

But honestly, it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. It was worse. 

Who knew becoming lost in a new life could help a girl find her true colors?

Mary's Review:

I was contacted by the author to review this book.  After I read the blurb, I thought it sounded interesting and read it. WOW! I was so wrong about this book.  The blurb does it NO JUSTICE!! IT IS SO MUCH BETTER THAN THAT!!  I read this book in one sitting.  I couldn't put it down.  I thought it was just going to be about a girl starting a new school and meeting a new boy ... but this book was so much more than that!!! SO MUCH MORE!!

Best part of the book: Bet you think I am going to say that Ryder is the best part of the book......well, you are half right,  Ryder AND Grace.  I think they are just a perfect set of characters.  Even though Grace liked Ryder right away, I liked how she "messed" with him a bit.  I love how Ryder is still there for her no matter what.

Not so great about the book:  Ok, this is not a "bad" part of the book but I really dislike this character.  It's Barry, Grace's step-father.  He is a big jerky-jerk! (I would use stronger language but I am trying to keep it PG).  I really dislike him! But, it is a large part of the story.  The other thing that I disliked was the Epilogue was not long enough for me.  However, I am a little greedy that way!

Overall, this is a great book and I think it would be a great read for everyone!!

BLOG TOUR: Confessions of an Alli Cat (The Cougar Chronicles, #1) by Courtney Cole

When I was contacted about the tour I was actually excited.  I had recently read Courtney Cole's book Dante's Girl and enjoyed it.  I also have her Bloodstone Saga Series on my "to-read" list.  So, I just knew that when I read Confessions of an Alli Cat it was going to be good.  Fair warning: This is an ADULT book! Just thought y'all should know that!

About the Author:

Courtney Cole is a novelist who lives near Lake Michigan with her family, pet iPad and her favorite cashmere socks.  She's always working on her next novel.  To learn more, visit her at www.courtneycolewrites.com.

You can stalk her on Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads and Amazon.

Here is the cover:

Here is just a sneak peak of the book: WARNING: THERE IS ADULT LANGUAGE AND CONTENT!

“You look marvelous!” Sara says when I round the corner into the bedroom.
“I feel ridiculous.”
“Why?  We are simply two wealthy women with trophy boy toys out for a night on the town at one of Vegas’s most luxurious night spots.  Nothing to feel ridiculous about.”
“I’m dressed like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, only without the body for it,” I say, indicating my short, tight dress.  “How did I let you talk me into buying this?”
“Well, I thought it might help things with Rick the Dick many moons ago, but this is an even better use.  Besides, you look mouthwatering.”   
Standing up, she walks to me.  She trails the fingertips of one hand down my cheek.  
“A beautiful face,” she says, dragging her hands down to palm my boobs next.  She gives them a squeeze.  “Delicious rack,” she declares then grabs my waist and spins me around.  “And a perfect ass,” she exclaims, slapping my butt.  “You are gorgeous and any man in his right mind would give his left nut to lick you from head to toe and everywhere in between.”
“I think you secretly have the hots for me,” I laugh.  “Maybe I should be going out with you instead.”
“Oh, you flatter!  If either of us swung that way, we’d be perfect together.  But, alas, I’m a sausage lover, as are you.  No tacos for us.”
I can’t help but laugh.  “Have you always been this way and I’m just now noticing?”
“Yes.  You’ve been preoccupied for a few years.”
“I’m beginning to really love this new you.  Even if she shocks me regularly and gets me into trouble more often than not.”
“You love it and you know it.  I add much-needed excitement to your life,” Sara claims, walking to the mirror to touch up her lipstick.
“Did I tell you I love that hair style on you, too?”  I ask, referring to her dark red pixie cut.  She totally has the face to pull it off. 
“Keep going like that and I’m yours.”
We both laugh.  
“Well, I guess I’m ready.”  I add under my breath, “At least as ready as I’ll ever be.”
“Then it’s time to go.” 
My stomach flutters in dread and anxiety and, yes, a little bit of excitement.  I take a deep breath and smile at Sara.  She loops her arms through mine and grins.  
“Welcome to the first night of the rest of your life.”
We make our way outside and down the walk to the curb, to the shiny black limousine waiting there.  The ride is only twenty minutes or so, during which I drink champagne in the back of the limo at a rate of speed that would make a sailor proud.
When we glide to a stop at the club, I follow Sara out of the car.  
And the man waiting for me nearly takes my breath away.
He’s taller than I imagined and much broader than I expected.  His shoulders look a mile wide in his perfectly-tailored tuxedo, making his waist look smaller than mine.  His hair is dark brown and his eyes are the same dark, sparkling blue as they are in his picture.
He’s young, all right.  But there is nothing boyish about this guy.  Not at all. 
As I step from the car, he extends his hand toward me.  I slip my fingers into his and he smiles.  I’m pretty sure my knees go numb and my uterus has a spasm.  But it’s when he speaks that I know it’s all over but the shouting. And the Hallelujah choir.  
“You’re more beautiful than I could’ve imagined,” he purrs in a deep, velvety voice.
Yep, I’m gonna ride him like a runaway bull tonight. No two ways about it.
The thought makes me smile.


Here is my review:

I was given this book as part of the tour and I worried because I did not think I was going to finish it in time.  Well, I was wrong because the moment I picked it up, I didn't set it back down till I was finished.  Now, I love a good YA book like every other female, but sometimes you want an adult book! Oh boy, did Courtney deliver with this one!

Best part of book:  Shade! OMG! SHADE! He just isn't your typical gigolo, he is way beyond that! He was more of a "teacher" for Alli.  I loved how he really cared about her and made her feel special.  Alli needed because she had such a horrible marriage and divorce.  She is 35-ish and I can relate to her a lot with some of her issues.  I think I love Sara (Alli's best friend) just as much.  She is a little "fire-cracker" and she cracked me up.  All the character in this book were good.

Not so great about book:  I wish the book was longer.  I would have liked to see more of Alli's relationship but I am hoping that there will be more of Alli's story later on.  *fingers crossed*

Snow, Blood, and Envy by Jean Haus

Goodread description:


With aspirations of being an animator, sixteen-year-old Nivi Nash thought she knew all about fairy tales. Take one beautiful damsel in distress, add a charming hero, and don’t forget a cackling villain. Throw in some pretty colors, a few songs, and mix well. 

But when caught in a real one, she learns the hero—though still hot—isn’t always charming, the story far from pretty, and the villain absolute evil. On the run for her life in a stolen SUV, she isn’t worried about her beauty, but happily ever after? Yes, she wants that the most. It means she’ll live. 

The kiss always at the end of these tales? Most of the time, okay maybe half of the time, the thought of that lip lock is far, far away where these stories are supposed to be. But tied to a stake on the side of a snowy mountain, the thought of her not-so-charming hero’s kiss burns away the reality of the knife hovering above her skin.

Mary's Review:

First, I want to thank Jean Haus for giving me this book.  I am sometimes apprehensive about remakes of classics.  Sometimes the authors get it right and sometimes they just screw it all up! However, Jean Haus did this retelling of Snow White ...... RIGHT!! WOW!! This book was so so good!!

Best part of the book: Nivi and Jai (aka Snow White and Prince Charming)! Jean definitely knows how to write 2 amazing characters.  The chemistry between these two characters is amazing,  Even though, I was unsure at first because this is set in modern time ... Jean hit the nail on the head!

I also love that, at first, you are not sure if Jai is good or bad.  I also like that I love Nivi right off page 1! I think that she is an amazing character!

Not so great about book: I did not like that Nivi's father was a dork throughout the book.  I understand the reasoning behind it, but every time he was on the page (talking or whatnot) I just wanted to reach through my Kindle and slap him! *eye roll* He is such a dork!!

Other than Nivi's father, I think this is a great book and a wonderful retelling of Snow White! I would recommend to others to read!!

Friday's Fictional Boyfriend: Lucas Delos

I debated long and hard on this week's fictional boyfriend.  I had three or four excellent choices to select from, but I ultimately settled on Lucas Delos. (Probably because I am wearing my Team Fate/Delos T-shirt at this very moment.)  Lucas is from Josephine Angelini's Starcrossed series.  Brace yourself...here is a picture Josie shared with her followers showing her vision of Lucas. 


Lucas is a Demigod, a direct descendant of Apollo.  He is over six feet tall and has exceptional strength.  He is one of the few demigods who can fly.  He is able to manipulate gravity to make himself light as a feather or as heavy as a rock.  Fortunately, Helen has these same qualities and abilities. 

In addition to these, Lucas is a Falsefinder.  He can tell when someone is not telling the truth, which for some reason did not work to his advantage during the first two books.  Helen's mother told them a whopper of a lie and he fell for it hook, line, and sinker.  Apollo is the god of light, which provides Lucas with the ability to bend light.  This particular skill comes in handy during the second book in the series.

Lucas and Helen do not experience love at first sight.  In fact, they actually try to kill each other.  The fates cause members of different Greek houses to want to kill one another.  After a particularly brutal battle between the two, they were able to settle their debts to each other's house and they are freed from the wrath of the fates.

We quickly discover that Lucas is not all looks.  He is very sweet and caring.  He is very protective of Helen, but he is not at all controlling.  He is very supportive of Helen and puts her needs ahead of his.  While it crushes him to see the effects the underworld is having on her, he realizes this is something she needs to do.  He doesn't interfere, but he does think of a ways he can help.

A couple of quotes for you:

“And I don't just WANT you, Helen. I LOVE you. Big difference.” - Lucas

"Even if it kills me, staying awake and seeing you... is better than any dream." - Helen to Lucas

"If other men were houses, Lucas was her Home." - A quote from Dreamless

I am anxiously awaiting a happily ever after to Lucas and Helen's relationship, which may never come.  Josie hinted that this is a Greek tragedy and not everything will end the way we may hope.  I am keeping my fingers crossed that she was not referring to Lucas and Helen when she made that statement.  We will find out on May 28, 2013 when the final book in this trilogy, Goddess, is released.
 

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Black Heart by Holly Black

Cassel Sharpe has the most deadly ability of all. With one touch, he can transform any object - including a person - into something else entirely. And that makes him a wanted man. The Feds are willing to forgive all his past crimes if he'll only leave his con artist family behind and go straight. But why does going straight feel so crooked? For one thing, it means being on the opposite side of the law from Lila, the girl he loves. She's the daughter of a mob boss and getting ready to join the family business herself. Though Cassel is pretty sure she can never love him back, he can't stop obsessing over her. Which would be bad enough, even if her father wasn't keeping Cassel's mother prisoner in a posh apartment and threatening not to let her leave until she returns the priceless diamond she scammed off him years ago. Too bad she can't remember where she put it. The Feds say they need Cassel to get rid of a powerful man who is spinning dangerously out of control. But if they want Cassel to use his unique talent to hurt people, what separates the good guys from the bad ones? Or is everyone just out to con him? Time is running out, and all Cassel's magic and cleverness might not be enough to save him. With no easy answers and no one he can trust, love might be the most dangerous gamble of all. (from Goodreads)

Flo's Review
Another beloved series comes to an end. I'm not sad to see it go, though -- even as I was reading this one, I felt that it was time for the series to wrap up. That's not to say that I didn't really enjoy my time spent there -- the world of the Curse Workers examines everything and leaves the ideas of "good" and "bad" open to much discussion. I love the detail that Holly gives in these books -- Cassel is so clever and I love to see how he comes out in the end. The writing is beautiful, too -- in this world of crime, the writing is like poetry. I am even satisfied with the ending -- I was actually thinking that is how it should end. Of course, there are a few things that are left up in the air: Barron's request, for example. Did Cassel ever do it? And Cassel's friends. And... {comment removed to avoid spoilers}. But I know it's impractical to neatly tie off every loose string, and better for the reader to leave some to her imagination. I highly encourage you to travel into the world of the Curse Workers if you haven't. It will transform you -- and yes, that's a pun. If you've read any of them, you'll catch the double meaning :) 

Read my review of Red Glove here.

COVER REVEAL: DESCENT OF BLOOD & ASCENT OF BLOOD by ELIZABETH MARX

Two beautiful covers are being revealed today from Elizabeth Marx.  These books will be available soon!

About the Author:


Windy City writer Elizabeth Marx brings cosmopolitan flair to her fiction, which is a blend of romance and fast-paced Chicago living with a sprinkle of magical realism. In her past incarnation she was an interior designer--not a decorator--which basically means she has a piece of paper to prove that she knows how to match and measure things and can miraculously make mundane pieces of furniture appear to be masterpieces. Elizabeth says being an interior designer is one part shrink, one part marriage counselor and one part artist, skills eerily similar to those employed in writing.
Elizabeth grew up in Illinois and has also lived in Texas and Florida. If she’s not pounding her head against the wall trying to get the words just right, you can find her at a softball field out in the boonies or sitting in the bleachers by a basketball court. Elizabeth resides with her husband, girls, and two cats who’ve spelled everyone into believing they’re really dogs.
Elizabeth has traveled extensively, but still says there’s no town like Chi-Town.

If you want to stalk Elizabeth you can:  Website, Facebook and Twitter.

The first reveal is Descent of Blood, The Red Veil Series, The Prequel.

Blurb:

When times are darkest, some vampires desire more than blood …

England, 1465. Mortal men clash in the War of the Roses for the English crown, while vampire warriors’ move undetected among their ranks, savoring the flow of blood that battlefields provide. 

Vampire prince, Severian Pearce, fears the revelation of the immortal clans to humankind should King Henry fall from power. While in pursuit of Henry’s enemies, Severian comes to the aid of Meridian Neville, a human woman he craves—and not for the scent of her blood … Meridian is torn between honoring her father’s dying wish and her unexplainable yearning for Lord Severian. But as Severian and Meridian work together to protect a relic hunted by mortals and immortals alike, the red veil descends over them. This all-consuming attraction can drive immortals to the brink of madness. Will the existence of this powerful bond between a human and a vampire be enough to unite the immortal clans or is the red veil a scourge set on destroying any chance they might have of happiness?

When all hope is lost, one vampire will fight unto death for his forbidden love.

And the beautiful cover:


The second cover reveal is Ascent of Blood, The Red Veil Series, Book One.

Blurb:

Sometimes, love is conceived in the mind of a man long before it is ever realized. 
1990, Cardiff, Wales.  Vampire prince, Sebastian Pearce, has waited six-hundred years for the right human mate. His own beloved mother was a mortal capable of carrying immortal offspring. While vampires no longer require live donors for sustenance, Mother Nature has played a cruel trick on them … making breeders a rare commodity. As numbers in his Imperial House dwindle, Sebastian’s virgin bride eludes him, until he happens upon a young woman searching for information about a sacred vampire text, the Book of Descent. 

Sebastian’s desire for her is more potent than anything he’s felt for another woman, but Everleigh Marbut isn’t innocent. She’s an American with a mind of her own, and worst of all, she’s already carrying an immortal being. Sebastian and Everleigh are so intent on fighting their attraction to each other and the influence of the red veil that they don’t realize they’re being pulled into a battle pitting medieval myth against the power of modern science to recreate life.


The beautiful cover:


Two beautiful covers for two great books!


Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Wanna Get AWKWARD?! Win the book by Marni Bates!


Who doesn't love a good Giveaway Hop? I may or not be obsessed with them! So, of course Book Nerds is are all over being part of I Am a Reader, Not A Writer's biggest hop of the year. We're giving away a copy of Awkward by Marni Bates. Click here to read our review.


a Rafflecopter giveaway Lots of good stuff is being given away, so thanks for visiting Book Nerds, and by all means hop on:

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Perchance by Lila Felix

Lila Felix has quickly become one of my favorite authors.  Her first book: Emerge was an amazing roller coaster of emotions.  She now has her second book, Perchance that is available.  Like Emerge, Lila puts her readers into another roller coaster and it is worth every single word!

Instead of doing another review of Perchance, Lila has been kind enough to give a small excerpt of the book:

Sunday morning Aunt Brenda and I went to church and sat in our regular pew in the middle on the right side. And to my surprise and joy, we were joined by Eric, Cooper, Troy and his Dad. Halfway through the sermon Cooper opened his hand on his lap and my hand slid into his. Aunt Brenda gently pinched my elbow letting me know that she was well aware of what was going on and I spent the rest of the church service with a full blush. Certainly there was some rule about blushing about your boyfriend in church, but I couldn’t control it to save my life.

I just love this book.  You can purchase it on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  Don't forget that you can also purchase Emerge on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Lila has been so kind to also be doing a giveaway.  One is International, where you can win a gifted copy of Emerge or a pdf of Perchance.

Be sure to enter here:


Then there is another giveaway for US only, where you can win a signed paperback of Emerge by Lila Felix and some awesome swag.

Be sure to enter here:


:


As always, be sure to stalk Lila Felix (Like I do) on her Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter and her personal Blog.

Monday, October 22, 2012

COUNTDOWN To Independence (Significance #4) by Shelly Crane

We are now back on track.  Again, sorry about the issues with Book 1: Significance.

We have 57 days left until the release of Book 4: Independence. Tonight is Chapter 1 of Book 2: Accordance.

Here are the highlights:

A prophecy.  What is this, Harry Potter? --Maggie
====
That bastard cut my hair! --Maggie
====
Maggie: So, you don't want to see me naked?
Caleb:  Of course I do.  Don't start your girly insecurities with me, Maggie Masters.  I just don't want the temptation.
====
Salon worker: Well them, let's get you situated.  Sugar Daddy can hang in the waiting area.
Maggie: But he's not my--
Salon worker: Oh, it's ok, honey.  It's California.  Everybody has one and those that don't wish they did.

Until tomorrow.............

COUNTDOWN To Independence (Significance #4) by Shelly Crane

OK a fan of the page just sent me a Twitter message saying "what happen to the countdown?"  I thought it was posting but something was wrong with the sight .... I AM SO SORRY!!

So, I am going to fix this real fast. I am going to finish up Book 1: Significance.

Again, I am so sorry about this!!

Chapter 31 highlights:

I told you in the very beginning that I'll let you set the pace and that still stands.  ---Caleb
=====
I'm happy, just like this, for now.  ---Caleb
=====
I love you too, baby.  I don't see how I can love you anymore than I do right now. ---Caleb
=====
I still felt tense and apprehensive, I had not idea what it was really or what it entailed or what it would feel like but this was Caleb.  I had to stop thinking of him as just a boy.  ---Maggie
=====

Chapter 32 highlights:

(hehe! this is my favorite chapter with Caleb and Maggie!)

Caleb:  Take it easy for a while and not be so wound tight.
Maggie:  I've had good reason to be so wound.
=====

You would never hurt me.  I know that more than anything else, especially after being in your mind.  You'd never do anything that I didn't want to do and I;m not worried about losing ourselves either.  Haven't I always kept you a gentleman?  ---Maggie
=====

Ok, that is the end of Book 1: Significance!!  We are will begin Book 2:

Cover Reveal: Don't Panic by Lindsay Paige

Lindsay Paige, the talented author of the Bold As Love series, has a new book coming out on January 13. 2013.  Lindsay is extremely talented as an author that I am very excited about this new book.  Be sure to follow the Don't Panic Facebook Page for teasers and updates on the book.

Here is a little bit about the book:


Samantha Branson is having severe anxiety attacks. Her heart beats unusually fast, her breath quickens and her hands sweat. Every detail screams in her head that she is the center of unwanted attention. Everyone can hear her thoughts, her heart and her breathing. The silence of the classroom is so loud that focus is impossible.

After an attack lands her in the wrong bathroom, Sam meets Eli who offers to provide help. Faced with the return of her possessive ex-boyfriend and the blossoming of a new romance, Sam must find the strength inside herself to face her anxieties head on.

And now the cover (Enjoy!):


Be sure to mark it on your "to-read" lists.  I know that I have it on mine!

Cover Reveal: Hale Maree by Misty Provencher

Oh, I just love Misty Provencher! I truly do! She is an amazing author of Cornerstone and Keystone and she is releasing a new adult romance novel: Hale Maree.

Want to know what the book is about? Well, here you go:


Hale Simmons dreams of climbing out of her impoverished life, going to college, and getting herself a titanium crash helmet, so she can eventually bust through the Plexiglas ceiling of her crappy life.  But for now, she’s just a 17-year-old girl with a flimsy hope, barely getting by with her alcoholic father, Jerry.
But for Hale, ‘crappy’ suddenly takes a nosedive, when Jerry becomes the sole witness to a horrible accident.  It is an event which means to effect everyone, especially Hale, who wasn’t even involved.
            While the depth of the accident has just begun to unfold, Otto Maree, a prominent business man and old family friend, stands to lose everything because of it.  Otto is desperate for Hale’s father to stay quiet about what occurred the night the two men met for a drink.  Out of mutual moments of desperation, the two fathers forge a deal.  Jerry is desperate to gain financial stability for both himself and Hale, and Otto Maree is more than willing to pay to keep his secret just that.
            But deals like this need to be made of the strongest vows and bound with the most faithful of loyalties.  Otto proposes a marriage between Hale and his playboy-son, Oscar, in order to assure that the secret remains ‘in the family’.  The mystery surrounding the accident continues to grow and Hale struggles against her own mysterious feelings that begin to develop for Oscar, who turns out to less of a playboy, but just as fiercely loyal and dedicated as his father.  
As the pressures around her continues to escalate, Hale realizes that she’s got to decide if this arranged marriage is really just a big mistake or an amazing twist of fate, that has been waiting around for this particular accident to happen.

Now, after that I know you want to see the cover!!! So, here you go:


This is set to release on November 19th and trust me I will have my calendar marked!

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Wicked Fate by Tabatha Vargo

Goodreads description:


What if you lived in fear of yourself?

For Mage McPherson being afraid of herself is just the norm. Thanks to that fear, being a loner in a small town never bothered the mysterious Mage. Once she received her secret abilities, she figured being alone was the safest way to be. That all changes during her sophomore year at Summerville High when Adam, her equally mysterious secret crush, starts to notice her.

Afraid that she might harm Adam, Mage must learn to either control or deny herself. With Adam by her side she's more powerful than she’s ever been, but is she powerful enough to defeat her worst nightmare? She learns a hard lesson about love and magic when her destiny comes to collect.

Mary's Review:

There are a few things that I need to let you know before I dive into this review.  1)  This book was given to me by the author, Tabatha Vargo, to beta read.  2) This book is not yet released; however, the moment that I know, I will let you know! And 3) I want to say THANK YOU for this amazing read!

Best part of the book: For the first time I was not sure what to choose as the "best part".  So, I am going to say the best part is: Tabatha Vargo.  She is the most descriptive author I think I have ever read.  I felt sad when Mage was sad.  I felt heartache with Adam.  I laughed at them and I felt like I was sitting in the garden with them.  Her attention to detail in the book was perfection.  I was entwined in this world with Mage and Adam that I almost skipped going to a football game (I never skip football! EVER!) When I started this story, I felt so sad for Mage.  She has no parents and was raised by her grandparents, but she always had these "abilities".  Because of her abilities she was an outsider.  She never had friends, but always had a crush on Adam.  I love their backstory the most.  Then Adam begins to notice her and talks to her! Soon, they spend time with each other and Mage begins to "break-out" of her shell (a little bit).  However, it can never be that simple.  Mage's past begins to haunt her and it all becomes so complex.  I don't want to go into much detail because Tabatha Vargo does such an amazing job with this book that YOU HAVE TO READ IT!

Not so great about book:  I am trying to replay the book in my head and think of what I did not like about it.  However, there was one thing that I did not like (and I won't reveal it because it will spoil the book).  Nonetheless,  I know that it was a must because it pulls the story together.  I can live with it though because I know that BOOK 2 is going to be outstanding!

Friday, October 19, 2012

Cover Update: The Saving Angels Series by Tiffany King

The ever amazing and talented Tiffany King has given The Saving Angel Series a little update.  Now, you should never judge a book by its cover, but I am loving these new covers.

Without further ado:
Meant To Be (book 1)
Forgotten Souls (book 2)
The Ascended (book 3)
I love these covers so much!! Can't wait till they are in paperback so I can purchase them!! What do you think?

COUNTDOWN To Independence (Significance #4) by Shelly Crane

Can you believe that it is only 60 days until the release of Independence!?

I cannot believe that Maggie and Caleb's story will come to an end.

So, let's keep going through Book 1: Significance and here are the highlights:

Maggie:  I thought with my new man arms I would be able to lift a duffel bag.
Caleb:  You're stronger than you were but you're still not Wonder Woman
====
Don't do anything stupid and give me a reason to have to kill your boyfriend.---Bish
====
Maggie:  But I thought it was so secret.
Caleb: It is, but your happiness is more important than a secret.
=====
Maggie: He was going to try to spoil me, I could see it now
Caleb: You bet your pretty tush I am.
=====
Here I was, running you down the river because of you spending your dad's money and you're like the sweetest guy ever. ---Maggie
=====


My most favorite like is the last line of the chapter.  I cannot put it in here because I am trying to keep it "spoiler free".  However, if you get a chance read that last line!!

Until tomorrow...............

Friday's Fictional Boyfriend: Noah Shaw


For those of you who are not familiar with Noah Shaw, he is from the Mara Dyer series.  The Evolution of Mara Dyer, the second book in the series, will be released this Tuesday October 23rd.  I am BEYOND excited and can't wait to get my hands on this book.  I have already pre-ordered my copy and feel like a kid at Christmas counting down the days until it magically appears on my Nook.

Noah is an English boy, ahhhh swoons over the accent.  He is also brilliant, well educated, witty, arrogant, and a bit of a bad boy.  He is from a very wealthy family, but his appearance is usually disheveled.  His dark hair and clothes look like he just rolled out of bed and he has a perpetual 5 o'clock shadow, but for him the look is perfection.  He doesn't have the best reputation when it comes to the ladies, but that all changes when he meets Mara.  These two are destined to be together and for once in his life he treats a girl the way she should be treated.   

Here are a couple of swoon worthy quotes from The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer:

Mara, I have never felt about anyone the way I feel about you. And when you're ready for me to show you," he said, brushing my hair to the side, "I'm going to kiss you." His thumb grazed my ear and his hand curved around my neck. He leaned me backward and my eyes fluttered closed. I breathed in the scent of him as he leaned in and kissed the hollow under my ear. My pulse raced under his lips.
"And I won't settle for anything less.”

You want me as much as I want you. And all I want is you."
My tongue warred with my mind. "Today," I whispered.
Noah stood slowly, his body skimming mine as he rose. "Today. Tonight. Tomorrow. Forever."

The icing on top of the cake...Noah is a reader.  His room is filled with bookshelves containing countless books, all of which he has read.  Some of the books are a bit inappropriate, but what would you expect from a high school boy.  The image at the top of this post is a copy of the book plate Michelle Hodkin is giving out at her upcoming book signings.  It is a quote from The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, which makes reference to Noah's book collection.

Avenge Blog Blitz for Sarah Ross

Avenge is now available!!

Sarah M. Ross, author of Awaken and Echo of an Earth Angel, has released the highly anticipated sequel, Avenge. This must-read book is now available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble


About the Book: 

Six months ago, Lucy Donovan thought that being killed by a drunk driver was the worst thing that could happen to her.
She was wrong.
Now, the person she loves most has been ripped away from her, soul held hostage, and Lucy has vowed to stop at nothing to get it back.
Part of a new team with enhanced powers, Lucy and her friends begin a quest to avenge the souls that have been stolen. Enemies of the Patronus have united, however, and a spy from within the Patronus realm is feeding the enemy their every move.
When a mission goes horribly wrong, Lucy’s soul becomes compromised. It will take a strength she didn’t know was within her to escape the darkness, return to the light and avenge the soul she loves.

PRICE:
$3.99 for ebook

$12.99 for Paperbacks. (Autographed copies available at www.sarahmross.com)

To celebrate this release, Sarah has placed Awaken on sale for only $.99 at Amazon and Barnes & Noble!! 


About the author:



I started my obsession with reading at an early age, getting in trouble for sneaking BabySitter Club and Nancy Drew books into math class in elementary school. I would read any fiction book I could get my hands on. I knew it was an addiction when instead of grounding me from TV or music, my mom would take away my books as punishment (The Horror!). My love of all things paranormal was inspired by my good friend Laurie, who convinced me that books with vampires, witches, and all things shifter were amazing. After a little reluctance, I gave it a shot with the Sookie Stackhouse books, realized she was right, and the rest was history. 
I grew up in Pittsburgh, graduated from The University of Pittsburgh with my degree in English, and taught 8th graders to love reading as much as I do for several years. I will always be a proud member of the Steelers Nation, but I couldn't take the cold and moved my frozen tush to Florida where I now live with my family and two cats. You will find me now with my trusty Kindle in hand and toes in the sand!

When I'm not writing or reading, I am probably partaking in my favorite vice: sunbathing. I know it's wrong, but I love the feeling on the hot sun on my skin and could lay in it for hours. I do live in Florida for a reason!

Please feel free to contact me!





Thursday, October 18, 2012

Jamie Loeak Blog Tour





I was very excited when Krystal Clear Book Reviews decided to host this Blog Tour.  I had seen Tamara talking about this book and I got very interested in it, because of how awesome it sounded!

I was given the book as part of the tour.  So, first I need to thank Jamie Loeak and the lovely ladies at Krystal Clear Book Reviews.

My review of the book:

If you know anything about me from reading this site, following me on Twitter or Facebook, you know that I have a slight obsession with fictional boys and book series.  In Body and Soul, Jaime Loeak has rocked my world with both!

Best Part of the book: I am going to start with Kate.  She moves around a lot because her mother is a marine biologist and her father is a lawyer.  This story is set in Florida, a small beach town, and it is here that we meet Rico (ok I had to talk about the boy).  Rico is not just some boy and his friend, Adriana, is not just some girl.  Kate begins to have these "dreams" and is not sure what is happening to her.  Well, there is more to the world that what the human eye can see.  Rico and Adriana try to help her understand the "situation" between the Light and Darkness; but it is up to Kate to choose what is best for her Body and Soul.  This is one reason why I love Rico, because he wants to protect Kate at any cost.  However, the question: can he do it?

Not so great about book:  Here are the 2 problems wrong with this book (and they are  HUGE problems).  The first is, I was not warned that I would be crying my eyes out at the end.  Talk about ripping someone's heart out! OMG! The second issue is: I don't know when book 2 is coming out.  I am not sure if I can hold out too long before I lose it!  I need more Rico and Kate in my life!  I am hoping that a release date is announced soon, until then I will be stalking Jamie Loeak on her site (click HERE)

About the Author: Jaime Loeak

Jamie Loeak is an aspiring YA author. She has written and published her first novel and continues to work toward finishing the trilogy, while new ideas for more novels pop into her ever changing mind. Jamie resides in Florida, where she is a middle school teacher. Finding time for writing is difficult within the world of lesson plans, assessments, and students; however, Jamie makes sure to make time for all of the things that she loves in life, including her students, pets, and loving boyfriend. When Jamie isn't writing or grading papers, she is forcing her sister into photoshoots or playing her guitar. Her current goal is to finish the Body and Soul Trilogy so that she can let her other ideas escape.

Be sure to follow her website: here

COUNTDOWN To Independence (Significance #4) by Shelly Crane

61 days......61 very long days until the release of Independence. But, I think we can hang on ... maybe!?

Well, we are on Chapter 29 and here are the highlights:

Maggie: Hey, Gran
Gran: Hey, pretty girl.  You make a good entrance.
=====
But never again.  You keep each other safe from now on and all will be well. ---Gran
====
I'm not worried about the money, I'm worried about you. ---Caleb
====
I'm glad you finally got everything right again.  I've been so worried about you two.  ---Jen
=====
As he turned away I stopped in a revelation.  I realized that I never felt the stuck feeling of needing to be released from him just now, even a little.  It was the first time we'd both walked away of our own free will. ---Maggie
=====
Bish: I'll try Maggie.  I want to like Caleb, I do.
Maggie: Well, you better get started because he's it for me.
====


So, much going on in this chapter! What do you think of Bish in this chapter.....do you think he can figure it out???

Until Tomorrow................

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Gabrielle Zevin Book Signing

Living in Ohio I am not as fortunate as Flo,who seems to have great authors coming to town every month.  About a week ago, I was thrilled to see that our library was going to host a talk and book signing with Gabrielle Zevin as part of their teen week.

I immediately went out and purchased Elsewhere for her to sign.



While I haven't read any of her books YET, I am certainly inspired to do so after listening to her presentation.  She has been traveling around giving what I would consider a motivational talk to teens, which she shared with those of us in attendance.

She talked about how she was interested in writing at a very young age.  She has discovered over the years that it takes 10,000 hours of practice for someone to excel at anything.  While this may sound like a lot of time, it is only 1.5% of the average life expectancy and breaks down to only 20 hours a week for 10 years.

So how did Gabrielle acquire her 10,000 hours you may ask? 

First, she didn't like riding the bus to school so her dad dropped her off an hour early.  She decided to start a school newspaper and began writing articles to pass the time before school.  Next, she started entering writing contests. Then, she started writing letters.  One of the letter she wrote was to the local newspaper detailing why their review of a Guns N Roses concert she attended was DEAD WRONG.  The newspaper ended up calling her and, based upon her persuasive letter alone, she was offered a job as a concert critic at the age of 14.  She then began writing some of her school's theater productions.  Eventually she started writing screenplays because she realized the prospects of making a living as the next William Shakespeare was highly unlikely.  The only one of her screenplays to actually make the big screen was Conversation(s) with Other Women. 

One night, after she finished reading Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix at 5 in the morning, groggy and sleep deprived, a sentence popped into her head.  This was the beginnings of her first novel Elsewhere.  She reached her 10,000 hours of practice prior to the start of this novel.  She was fortunate enough to have the book published and received numerous positive reviews.  She has since gone on to write several other novels, which include the Birthright series.  I have added these to my to be read list as well.  It will be a trilogy with the final book being released in the fall of 2013.


I enjoyed hearing her inspiration for Elsewhere and can't wait to read it.  Her presentation was very inspiring and I was happy to see that she is sharing such a positive message with today's youth. 

You can count on reviews of some of her work in the near future. 

COUNTDOWN To Independence (Significance #4) by Shelly Crane

62 day left until the release of Independence. Oh I don't know if I can stand it.

Here are the highlights of Chapter 28 of Book 1: Significance:

Maggie:  We don't need a chaperone, dad.
Jim:  I'll be the judge of that.
=====
Maggie: I'm fine, really.
Bish: Stop, Mags.  It's not like you had a bad experience at the dentist....
=====
Look at my little sister, A player. ---Bish
=====

Ok, this was a bit harder to highlight without spoilers *phew* but I think I did it.

I liked this chapter because Bish (who is Maggie's older adopted brother) is introduced!  On top of that, we have more family interactions and I love that.

Until Tomorrow..................

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

COUNTDOWN To Independence (Significance #4) by Shelly Crane

63 days until the release of Independence.

The closer it gets to the release date the more excited I get!!

We now are on Chapter 27 and here are the highlights:

You knew this would happen, that she'd be a freak and you did it anyway." ---Jim
=====
Did you think I'd never leave home? Never move out? Never go to college? Never get married? ---Maggie
=====
I may be coming to terms with all this but I'm still your father. ---Jim
=====
I'll always come for you. I'll always find you, I told you, you're everything now, Maggie.  I love you so much. ---Caleb
=====
Peter: I explain to them last night that we told you everything and they are anxious to meet you.
Jim: Really? Ready to string me up by my ankles?
====

Did you like seeing more of Jim and Peter?  I just love the "Dads"!!

Until tomorrow................

Monday, October 15, 2012

COUNTDOWN To Independence (Significance #4) by Shelly Crane

64 days! 64 days! I can't believe how close we are getting to the release of Independence and the conclusion of the Significance series.

We are on Chapter 26 and here are the highlights:

I haven't been called names that bad since...ever. ---Caleb
=====
That wasn't a very well thought out plan was it? ---Caleb
=====
Never in a million years would I have believed I'd found the love of my life at a stop light after I saved his life. ---Maggie
=====
You think you've won?  This has just begun. ---Marcus
=====
I didn't know whether to be flattered or frightened. ---Maggie
=====
We take care of our family. ---Peter
=====

What a roller coaster of a Chapter?!?!  This is why I love Shelly Crane.  She knows how to keep you wanting more!

Until tomorrow............

Sunday, October 14, 2012

COVER REVEAL: The Reluctant King by Rachel Higginson

REMAIN CALM! Well, at least help me remain calm, because I am FAN-GIRLING out!! Y'all now that that Star-Crossed series is one of my all time favorite series. Now, Rachel is writing a spin-off of that called:

The Reluctant King!!

Here is the blurb about this new book:


Avalon St. Andrews has endured Hell and war in an attempt to secure freedom and immortality for his people. Raised and conditioned to be both warrior and leader, he now sits on a throne with his sister Eden, governing the Kingdom in peace. While his people enjoy the benefits of his struggle and loss, he is restless, bored and alone. 

Avalon is summoned to fight to save his people once more as the Kingdom is threatened by a brand new evil. In addition to reigning in a kingship he doesn’t want, he is fighting against the very people he has fought so hard to protect. They are determined to throw away their newfound freedom and their newfound leaders.

In this war and in this kingship he feels alone. And for the first time he feels hollow. That is until Amelia Cartier shows up, invading his every thought and shaking up his carefully controlled world.

Now he faces yet another battle—making Amelia his queen.

I am shaking to get my hands on this book!

So, without further ado, the Cover of THE RELUCTANT KING:


Rachel Higginson has even added a small sample of the playlist for the book! Oh I can tell it's gonna be good!

Here is the playlist:

Loneliest Soul by Grace Potter and The Nocturnals
Castle of Glass by Linkin Park
Lonely Boy by The Black Keys
My Oh My by Tristan Prettyman
Only if For a Night by Florence + the Machine
Girl with the Red Balloon by The Civil Wars
Stubborn Love by The Lumineers
Only You by Ellie Goulding
We Will Walk by Matisyahu
More Than life by Whitely

Be sure to follow Rachel Higginson here.  I will also keep you updated when information is available!

The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan

"In a fantastical ship called the Argo II, seven demigods journey by air across the United States and by sea to Rome on their quest to defeat the earth mother, Gaea. Meanwhile, war is breaking out between the Roman and Greek demigods they left behind, and only Annabeth holds the key to restoring peace." (from HeroesofOlympus.com)

Flo's Summary

OH MY GODS. I have been seeing all my friends reading this simultaneously (it just came out this month) and giving it five star reviews on Goodreads. I was even warned by one: "FLO. THE ENDING WILL KILL YOU. I'm not even joking. You will die."

They were right. Rick Riordan was at the top of his game with The Mark of Athena. It had everything I've come to know about love about his books: action, suspense, adventure, cleverness, romance. These seven demigods are all fantastic, and it was so great to see them all learning how to work together and trust each other. I was amazed how something would come up in one part of the book that seemed like and inconsequential at the time, but ended up being something quite huge later on. As always, the settings were fantastic -- I loved seeing both places I've been (like Atlanta) as well as places I could only imagine through the eyes of the demigods. I have never flown through a 600 page book so quickly! Rick left us almost literally with a cliffhanger, so now I guess I have to face the long year ahead of me as I wait for The House of Hades.