Arson by Estevan Vega

Book: Arson by Estevan Vega

Release date: May 4, 2010

Number of pages: 318

Publisher: Tate Publishing

From: Author

Summary:

ARSON GABLE FEELS LIKE A FREAK. HE CAN CREATE FIRE. HE NEVER ASKED FOR IT. HE NEVER WANTED IT. BUT HE CAN'T SHUT IT OFF.

Before now, three things were true: he both loved and despised his grandmother; his life was going nowhere; and he was alone. But when a strange girl-who feels more normal behind a mask than inside her own skin-moves in next door, Arson hopes to find something he's never had: purpose. Using what he fears the most about himself, Arson must face his consuming past and confront the nightmare that is present as he walks the fine line between boy and monster. Dark, moody, and breathtakingly relevant, Arson, the chilling chronicle of an isolated boy with unimaginable ability, is sure to ignite the hearts and minds of a new generation.

*****

Arson was an amazing book. I read so many good reviews for it before I even got it and I couldn't wait to read it. Now, after finishing it, I can't wait for the sequel. Estevan Vega did a wonderful job making Arson a book full of mystery, romance, and characters you won't be able to get out of your head.

I have to say that, in my opinion, the best part of Arson was the writing. It's one of the most crucial factors when it comes to whether or not I like a book and in this case, I loved it. From the very first page, I was drawn into the story because it was so beautifully written.

The characters in Arson were all different than what I had expected. Arson, Emery, and Grandma Kay were the hardest for me to understand. As the book progressed and I learned of all their secrets, I began to know them better but some of the things they did still mystify me. I hope to learn a lot more about each character in the next book.

Another great thing about Arson was the ending. It totally blew me away. I never saw any of it coming. It's definitely a big cliff hanger but that just means that I will have to get the sequel as soon as possible. =]

Overall, Arson is unlike any book I have read and if you don't mind a little creepiness I recommend reading it. I am so glad that I got the chance to read it and I will now patiently wait for the sequel!

Opening line: The lake was quiet.

Writing: 5/5

Characters: 4/5

Plot: 4/5

Ending: 5/5

Originality: 5/5

Overall: 23/25=A-

Cover: 5/5=A++ (Super creepy!)

Waiting On Wednesday: Amy And Roger's Epic Detour

Book: Amy And Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Release date: May 4, 2010

Publisher: Simon And Schuster

Summary: From a talented debut author, the moving and relatable story of a girl who takes a road trip to find herself--and the guy who goes with her.

So I don't have a really big idea what this one is about but the cover and the story sound great. I love books about road trips so this one was automatically added to my to-read list. Also, it's by a debut author so I love that. I will probably be using it for the debut challenge. =]

What are you waiting on this week?

Interview with Swati Avasthi!

Swati Avasthi is the debut author of Split, which was released on March 9 from Random House books for young readers. =]

KBB: Did you always want to be a writer or did you picture yourself doing something else? If so, what was it?

SA: I’ve bounced around a lot. I taught autistic kids for about six months and worked in professional theater in Chicago. For a long time, I thought I’d be a lawyer. I worked as a paralegal, was a thesis away from a Mater’s in Criminal Justice and had about a year of law school under my belt when I left the law to raise my kids. I loved the law. Then again, my biggest role model for the law was Atticus Finch, so I guess, it’s a from literature to literature kind of thing.

KBB: Why did you decide to write a book for young adults?

SA: I’m not sure it was a decision per se. I’ve heard that you write what you love to read and that was true for me. I had been reading quite a few young adult novels when the idea for Split gelled and since it is the story of a 16 year old boy, it felt like a YA novel to me.

KBB: What do you consider the best part of being a writer?

SA: Do I have to choose just one? I’d say the flexibility of my schedule. I love it that being a writer and raising my kids go hand in hand.

KBB: Do you have any must-haves while you are writing?

SA: Headphones, a playlist, and caffeine.

KBB: Do you have a favorite character from your book?

SA: Jace, my protagonist, is my favorite, of course. But next to him would be Dakota. She’s strong and smart and carries the least baggage of everyone, so I enjoyed writing her.

KBB: Are any of the characters in your book based on people you know?

SA: Yes, but only the minor ones. Eric, a kid on Jace’s soccer team, is based on a guy I knew in high school. One character, Felix, was based heavily on a friend of mine. I was pretty sad when I had to cut that character from my book entirely in the sixth draft.

KBB: Do you have a favorite young adult book that you would recommend? It can be an upcoming release, new release, or even a pretty old one.

SA: Oh, so many, but I’ll limit myself to one from each category.

Upcoming release: Kristina McBride’s The Tension of Opposites (May, Egmont);

New Release: Julie Schumacher’s Blackbox (Delacort, 2009);

Pretty Old One: Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak.

KBB: Can you tell us anything about what you are currently working on? Any more YA novels in the plans?

SA: I’m on my second YA novel, BIDDEN (Knopf, 2011). Holly, Corey, and Savitri are looking forward to graduation and then a summer of comic book reading and free-running. But a shooting changes everything. Corey is dead; Savitri is looking for revenge, and Holly is sinking so deeply inside herself that no one – not even Savitri – can reach her. Portions of it are written as a graphic novel, so it’s been a blast and an intense learning experience.

KBB: Just for fun: What is your most embarrassing moment? It can be writing related but it doesn't have to be.

SA: When I was meeting my son’s first grade teacher for the first time, I was holding my then two-year old daughter in my arms. She grabbed a hold of my snap-front shirt and pulled. With a series of quick pops, his teacher got to see more of me in that first meeting than either of us expected.

KBB: Wow that is quite embarrassing. Yikes. Thanks so much for the interview. I can't wait to read Split and I am definitely going to check out the other books you mentioned. =]

Readers if you would like to know more about Swati Avasthi and her debut novel, here are some links for you.

Website: www.swatiavasthi.com

Blog: www.swatiavasthi.blogspot.com

Book trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htjU0LccQ6E

In My Mailbox 57

In My Mailbox is a meme created by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie! It is a list of what books you have received over the previous week, either in the mail, from the bookstore, from the library, or from trades. =]

For review:

-How To Uncage A Girl by Francesca Lia Block

-Life, After by Sarah Darer Littman

-Paisley Hanover Kisses And Tells by Cameron Tuttle

-Split by Swati Avasthi

-The Deadly Sister by Eliot Schrefer

-The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

-The Evil Within by Nancy Holder

-The School For Dangerous Girls by Eliot Schrefer

-The Snowball Effect by Holly Nicole Hoxter

From trades:

-Clone Codes by Patricia, Frederick, and John McKissack

-Darklight by Lesley Livingston

-Deadly Little Lies by Laurie Faria Stolarz

-Gone by Lisa McMann

-Into The Wild Nerd Yonder by Julie Halpern

-My Invented Life by Lauren Bjorkman

-Saving The World and Other Extreme Sports by James Patterson

-The Final Warning by James Patterson

-Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

There is what was in my mailbox this week. I got a ton of books from trades and the exact same amount for review. That almost never happens. Some of the books from trade I have already read and I got finished copies for my bookshelf. Yay.

What was in your mailbox this week?

Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap

Book: Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap

Release date: March 2, 2010

Number of pages: 320

Publisher: Bloomsbury

From: Publisher

Summary:

For Anastasia Romanov, life as the privileged daughter of Russia’s last tsar is about to be torn apart by the bloodshed of revolution. Ousted from the imperial palace when the Bolsheviks seize control of the government, Anastasia and her family are exiled to Siberia. But even while the rebels debate the family’s future with agonizing slowness and the threat to their lives grows more menacing, romance quietly blooms between Anastasia and Sasha, a sympathetic young guard she has known since childhood. But will the strength of their love be enough to save Anastasia from a violent death?

*****

Anastasia's Secret was not what I was expecting. That's not to say it wasn't good, because it was. I love historical fiction and Anastasia's Secret is at the top of my list. Susanne Dunlap did an amazing job with it!

This is my first Susanne Dunlap book and I really liked her writing style. It was super east to read and it helped make the book seem a lot quicker. The writing was just beautiful and the story was even better.

The characters were definitely the best part of the book. The Romanov family was full of very likable people and there friends were great too. I felt so bad for all of them and I hated all the horrible things that they had to go through. Sasha was also really great, but in a completely different way. =]

I have to say that the plot dragged a bit. There was a lot of talk and not a lot of action. I had some trouble getting through the parts where nothing was happening but I did manage and enjoyed the book tremendously.

I won't tell you how it end, obviously, but I will say that it is historically correct. If you know the story of the Romanov family, then you know how it ends. It wasn't the ending I was hoping for but I was glad Susanne Dunlap stuck with what really happened.

Overall, Anastasia's Secret is definitely on my list of recommendations for fans of historical fiction. Susanne Dunlap succeeded in writing a fantastic story that practically transported me to Russia. You know it's a good book when you feel like you are a part of it!

Opening line: "We are surrounded by guards." -page 1

Writing: 4/5

Characters: 5/5

Plot: 3/5

Ending: 5/5

Originality: 4/5

Overall: 21/25=B-

Cover: 4/5=B-

Poll about the blog!

There is a new poll about the blog on the left sidebar and I would love it if you guys would take the time to fill it out. It's just a question about what you would like to see on the blog. Also, if you have any comments you would like to add you can post them here. =]

Thanks!

Waiting On Wednesday: Crossing Over

Book: Crossing Over by Anna Kendall

Release date: October 14, 2010

Publisher: Viking

Summary:
Whether it's a curse, or a blessing, or an ability, the fact remains: whenever Roger is injured or in enough pain he crosses over to the land of the dead. Once there, there are rules: only the newly dead will talk, for example, and nothing will raise the longer dead from their tranquillity.

There are rules in the land of the living as well; rules which would have Roger hanged for witchcraft if he was ever caught. But refusing to cross over isn't an option. His uncle depends on Roger to hide under the table in their fairground act, listen to the recently bereaved asking questions of their dear departed, and then cross over to find the answers. It's a hard way of life, made all the harder as his uncle's fists usually provide the trigger for Roger to cross over.

It's not the only way of life, though, and when Roger sees a chance to escape he fights for it - little knowing that love, loss, shocking revelations and, ultimately, war lie ahead of him.

Just because Roger can cross over into the land of the dead doesn't mean he wants to.

So, I haven't heard a lot about this book but it sounds good. I love the cover and the summary. I hate that it is still so far away from being released. I really don't like waiting on books that I really want to read. =]

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

If We Kiss by Rachel Vail

Book: If We Kiss by Rachel Vail

Release date: May 1, 2006

Number of pages: 288

Publisher: HarperTeen

From: Bookstore

Summary:
What would happen if we kiss?

Kevin led me quickly around the side of the building, then stopped. I managed not to crash into him. I tried to look calm, cool, unperturbed. I told myself not to laugh, especially not a snorting kind of laugh. "Wha . . . what did . . ."

And then he kissed me.

If We Kiss is the story of Charlotte (Charlie to her friends), who finds herself falling for a boy who is off-limits. Her best friend is in love with him, and her mother and his father are dating. Still, Charlie can't help but wonder, what would happen if we kiss?

*****

If We Kiss is a book with no real substance. I guess there could have been a message to it but it didn't come across to me. It all just seemed a little too pointless.

If We Kiss is about Charlie's first kiss and what happens afterward. The whole kissing part wasn't even that big. The story was more about what happens if she kisses him again later even though she didn't enjoy it the first time. Oh and things have really changed since the first time she kissed him seeing as now her mom is dating his dad and her best friend is dating him.

I couldn't like Charlie. She was whiny, selfish, rude, and just plain mean at times. Her mom was actually happy dating Kevin's dad but she had to be a complete bitch because that is not what she wanted. Her best friend was dating Kevin but whenever she thought about Kevin, she didn't seem to mind that. There were times when she even wished he would dump her. What kind of friend does that?

Also, there just didn't seem to be anything to the story until the end when Charlie finally grew up a little. She was 14-years-old but she acted more like she was 11 or 12. The setting of the high school didn't seem like any high school today. It's almost like the characters could have been in middle school. That was probably closer to their attitudes.

Overall, I didn't like If We Kiss and I would only recommend it if you are desperate. I couldn't get into it and now I am just glad that I am done with it.

Writing: 8/10

Characters: 5/10

Plot: 6/10

Ending: 6/10

Originality: 8/10

Overall: 33/50=D

Cover: 7/10=C-

In My Mailbox 56

In My Mailbox is a meme created by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie! It is a list of what books you have received over the previous week, either in the mail, from the bookstore, from the library, or from trades. =]

For review:

-Crossing by Andrew Xia Fukuda

-House Of Dance by Beth Kephart

-The Light (Morpheus Road #1) by DJ Machale

-My Invisible Boyfriend by Susie Day (second copy)

-Ostrich Boys by Keith Gray

-Rules of Attraction (Perfect Chemistry #2) by Simone Elkeles

-Stargazer (Evernight #2) by Claudia Gray (second copy)

-The Heart Is Not A Size by Beth Kephart (second copy)

Bought/Traded:

-Book Of A Thousand Days by Shannon Hale

-Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder

-Far From You by Lisa Schroeder

-Persistence of Memory by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

-Project 17 by Laurie Faria Stolarz

-School's Out Forever (Maximum Ride #2) by James Patterson

-Spring Break by Katherine Applegate

-The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

-The Fallen 1 by Thomas Sniegoski

-The Secret Life Of Prince Charming by Deb Caletti

-The Sight by Judy Blundell

-The Six Rules Of Maybe by Deb Caletti

-Two Girls Of Gettysburg by Lisa Klein

So this week I went book shopping for the first time in a while. I found so many books that I wanted and I got most of them. And I bought three hardcovers. Those are the first hardcovers I have bought in months. Normally, I just can't afford them but I could this week. I don't even know which book to start with. Maybe I will go in alphabetical order. =]

Also, the doubles that I got this week have been added to my trade list. I am really looking for people to trade with so if I have something that you want and you think you have something I might want, please email me.

What was in your mailbox this week?

Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston

Book: Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston

Release date: December 23, 2008

Number of pages: 328

Publisher: HarperTeen

From: Contest

Summary:

Since the dawn of time, the Faerie have taken. . . .

For seventeen-year-old actress Kelley Winslow, faeries are just something from childhood stories. Then she meets Sonny Flannery, whose steel-gray eyes mask an equally steely determination to protect her.

Sonny guards the Samhain Gate, which connects the mortal realm with the Faerie's enchanted, dangerous Otherworld. Usually kept shut by order of icy King Auberon, the Gate stands open but once a year.

This year, as the time approaches when the Samhain Gate will swing wide and nightmarish Fae will fight their way into an unsuspecting human world, something different is happening . . . something wondrous and strange. And Kelley's eyes are opening not just to the Faerie that surround her but to the heritage that awaits her.

Now Kelley must navigate deadly Faerie treachery—and her growing feelings for Sonny—in this dazzling page-turner filled with luminous romance.

*****

I am in love with Sonny and Kelley. They are my new favorite couple, at least for the moment. I know I am one of the last bloggers to read this book and I am ashamed to have waited so long. Kelsey from The Book Scout can be thanked for finally talking me into it!

Wondrous Strange is the story of Kelley Winslow, a 17-year-old actress living on her own in New York City. If that's not challenging enough she now has a crazy guy following her around, spouting nonsense about faeries. I guess things could be worse. At least the crazy guy is hot! =]

I am going to start with my favorite thing about this book and any YA reader should know what I am talking about. Lesley Livingston has done what many YA authors have failed to do and given her heroine courage and strength, not just beauty and ditziness. Kelley is not a wimp. She doesn't just sit around hoping Sonny will come save her. She takes action and she is brave. She is one of the very few heroines with a backbone.

Also, while faerie stories are becoming more common, Wondrous Strange is still unique. There were some crazy creatures in this book and some even crazier faeries. Auberon and Mabh, to name the two craziest. They both did some very shocking things but you will have to read the book to find out what.

Overall, Wondrous Strange is a beautifully written tale of faerie. Darklight is high on my list of books to read now and as soon as I get my hands on a copy I plan on diving in. So, if you haven't read Wondrous Strange yet, go do that!

Writing: 10/10

Characters: 10/10

Plot: 9/10

Ending: 10/10

Originality: 10/10

Overall: 49/50=A+

Cover: 9/10=A-

Waiting On Wednesday: The Lighter Side Of Life And Death

Book: The Lighter Side Of Life And Death by CK Kelly Martin

Release date: May 25, 2010

Publisher: Random House

Summary:
Sixteen-year-old Mason Rice is having the night of his life. He's just delivered an incredible performance in the school play, basked in celebratory afterglow vibes at the party of the year, and lost his virginity to one of his best friends—the gorgeous but previously unobtainable Kat Medina. His dreams are coming true, and the future looks golden.

Unfortunately, Kat sees things very differently. Crossing the friendship line was a big mistake, and all she wants is to forget it and move on, even if that means forgetting Mason altogether. What's a guy to do? Well, if you're Mason, you hang your hopes on the first attractive twenty-three-year-old you cross paths with. At first Mason wonders if he's imagining the chemistry . . . until Colette invites him over to her apartment. Suddenly Mason's living in a whole new world.

I really love the sound of this book. I haven't read either of her first two books but they are both very high on my wishlist. They all just sound really good and I hope to read them all soon. If you have read them, what did you think?

What are you waiting on this week?

Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White

Book: Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White

Release date: March 2, 2010

Number of pages: 384 pages

Publisher: Greenwillow Books

From: Publisher

Summary:
When someone leaves three mystery flowers outside her dorm door, Laurel thinks that maybe the Avondale School isn't so awful after all — until her own body starts to freak out. In the middle of her English presentation on the Victorian Language of Flowers, strange words pop into her head, and her body seems to tingle and hum. Impulsively, Laurel gives the love bouquet she made to demonstrate the language to her spinster English teacher. When that teacher unexpectedly and immediately finds romance, Laurel suspects that something — something magical — is up. With her new friend, Kate, she sets out to discover the origins and breadth of her powers by experimenting on herself and others. But she can’t seem to find any living experts in the field of flower powers to guide her. And her bouquets don't always do her bidding, especially when it comes to her own crush, Justin. Rumors about Laurel and her flowers fly across campus, and she's soon besieged by requests from girls — both friends and enemies — who want their lives magically transformed — just in time for prom.

*****

I hate to say this but I did not like Forget-Her-Nots. For some reason I never got into the story and I found myself reading the book just to get it over with. From the reviews I have read, I seem to be the only one who didn't completely enjoy Amy Brecount White's debut novel.

Laurel Whelan loves flowers. She always helped her mom in her garden and now that her mom is gone, she makes do with the flowers at her school, Avondale. Not only is she good with flowers, she seems to make magic with them. When word gets around school about her magic flowers, everybody wants them. Will Laurel use her gift wisely or will it go to her head?

I guess, for starters, I didn't particularly like Laurel. She didn't seem to have much of a personality. She didn't make many friends and the ones that she did make, she ignored a lot of the time. Laurel was kind of obsessed with flowers and I have never really been into flowers so I couldn't relate. She annoyed me most of the book.

The plot wasn't bad but I didn't like the characters enough to care much about the rest of the book. I couldn't get into the story so I gave up with it. It had some good things, like the writing, but it wasn't a book for me.

Overall, I didn't like Forget-Her-Nots but that doesn't mean other people won't. If it sounds like something you would like, give it a shot. I still plan on reading whatever else Amy Brecount White writes in the future! =]

Writing: 8/10

Characters: 6/10

Plot: 6/10

Ending: 8/10

Originality: 9/10

Overall: 37/50=C

Cover: 8/10=B-

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? (5)

Read last week:

-Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap

-Arson by Estevan Vega

Reading now:

-The Line by Teri Hall

Reading next:

-The Sky Is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

-Voices of Dragons by Carrie Vaughn

-Princess For Hire by Lindsey Leavitt

I have been really slow lately. I need to read faster. I hate that there are so many books that I want to read and I just don't have the time. Ugh. I did manage to read two really good books last week, though. My reviews for both of them should be posted very shortly!

What are you reading this Monday?

Win 1 of 3 signed copies of The Debs: Love, Lies, and Texas Dips!

So, this is a totally random contest. I realized that the third Debs book comes out this month and I thought I would give away three signed copies of the second book in the series. I reviewed both the first and second books last year and I loved them. They are really quick and fun books.

Basically all you have to do to be entered is fill out the form. That's it. I am trying super hard to clear out some of my extra books and this will help. =]

The contest will end in two weeks on March 28. Oh and sorry but this is a US only contest. I have had to ship out way too many books lately and I am pretty much broke.

Fill out the form here.

In My Mailbox 55

In My Mailbox is a meme created by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie! It is a list of what books you have received over the previous week, either in the mail, from the bookstore, from the library, or from trades. =]

For review:

-Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

-My Double Life by Janette Rallison

-Shifty by Lynn E. Hazen

-The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell

-Little Vampire Women by Louisa May Alcott and Lynn Messina (no cover yet)

-How To Take The Ex Out Of Ex-Boyfriend by Janette Rallison

-Scandal (Private #11) by Kate Brian

So, I actually bought one book this week but only because it was a part of the Private series. I am trying so hard not to buy any more books but I hate it because there are so many good ones out there that I want. I did get some really good ones for review, though. LINGER! I am so excited to read that one. Well, I am excited to read the other three too but nowhere near as excited as I am for Linger.

What was in your mailbox this week?

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

Book: Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

Release date: March 2, 2010

Number of pages: 336

Publisher: Hyperion Books

From: Publisher

Summary:

When Sophie Mercer turned thirteen, she discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-Gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hecate Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward prodigium, a.k.a. witches, fae, and shapeshifters. By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard. Three powerful enemies who look like supermodels; a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock; a creepy, tag-along ghost; and a new roommate, who happens to be the most-hated person and only vampire on campus. Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her friend Jenna is the number one suspect.

Meanwhile, Sophie has a more personal shock to grapple with. Not only is her father the head of the prodigium council, he's the most powerful warlock in the world, and Sophie is his heir. As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all prodigium, especially her.

*****

Hex Hall, Rachel Hawkins' debut novel, was fantastic! I could not stop reading it and now I really want to read the sequel. Everything about the book was great and it is definitely being added to my list of favorite books.

Sophie Mercer is a witch. She's not exactly good at it though, so she is sent to Hecate Hall, where she won't run the risk of exposing witches to the world. Hecate Hall is not where she wants to spend her next two years but she is stuck so she might as well make the best of it. She befriends Jenna, the only vampire student, develops a futile crush on Archer, a very good looking warlock, and makes enemies of the only coven of dark witches at the school, including Archer's girlfriend. It seems like nothing else could possibly go wrong but then the attacks start. And Sophie may be next.

Sophie was actually a pretty funny character. She was kind of clueless and I loved her for it. I could really relate to what she was going through, the whole trying to fit in thing. She just kept making mistakes and they all had me laughing. I really loved how she took control, though. She realized that she wouldn't get any better without practice so that's what she did. She was a strong heroine that I found myself rooting for!

The plot was great. I couldn't guess who or what was attacking the students. And that wasn't the only surprise thrown in. Let's just say that Archer had a bit of a secret that I never saw coming. It threw me for a loop. After reading that, I have to have the sequel. I want to know what happens and I want to know now.

Overall, Hex Hall is a great paranormal book that has a little bit of everything thrown in. Rachel Hawkins did an amazing job with her debut and the sequel is one that I am dying to get my hands on. =]

Writing: 10/10

Characters: 9/10

Plot: 10/10

Ending: 9/10

Originality: 9/10

Overall: 47/50=A-

Cover: 9/10=A-

Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison

Book: Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison

Release date: March 4, 2010

Number of pages: 320

Publisher: Razorbill

Source: Author

Summary:

THE TRANSFORMATION

Beth has always been “The Beast”—that’s what everyone at school calls her because of her awkward height, facial scars, and thick glasses. Beth’s only friend is geeky, golden-haired Scott. That is, until she’s selected to be her choir’s soprano soloist, and receives the makeover that will change her life forever.

THE LOVE AFFAIR

When Beth’s choir travels to Switzerland, she meets Derek: pale, brooding, totally dreamy. Derek’s untethered passion—for music, and for Beth—leaves her breathless. Because in Derek’s eyes? She’s not The Beast, she’s The Beauty.

THE IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE

When Beth comes home, Scott, her best friend in the world, makes a confession that leaves her completely torn. Should she stand by sweet, steady Scott or follow the dangerous, intense new feelings she has for Derek?

THE HEARTBREAK

The closer Beth gets to Derek, the further away he seems. Then Beth discovers that Derek’s been hiding a dark secret from her …one that could shatter everything.

*****

Sing Me To Sleep is Angela Morrison's second novel and so far, my favorite. It was such a beautiful story and amazingly well written. Taken By Storm was good but Sing Me To Sleep was out of this world!

Beth is the Beast. She has accepted that her voice will be the only pretty thing about her. All that changes when she is chosen to be her choir's soloist for the Choral Olympics in Switzerland. Beth gets the makeover of a lifetime and suddenly everyone wants her. The only one Beth wants, though, is Derek. Derek is a member of one of the boys choirs they meet in Switzerland and with him, everything changes. The only problem is that Derek is keeping something from her and it could change everything, for the worse.

I don't normally pity characters but at the beginning of the book, I felt so sorry for Beth. Her life sucked at school. She only had Scott as her one real friend and she didn't know how to handle her changing feelings for him. He was cute but once I got to the part with Derek, I stopped thinking about Scott. I absolutely loved Derek. He was just what Beth needed. He helped her see herself in a new light. He was perfect.

Obviously, I am not going to tell you what Derek's secret is. It was not a happy secret, though. I bawled my eyes out while reading Sing Me To Sleep. It was so touching and beautiful. The only thing I didn't like was how passive Beth was when it came to finding out Derek's secret. I felt that she should have tried a lot harder to get him to tell her, but oh well. In the end, she found out.

Overall, Sing Me To Sleep is an extraordinary book that I recommend for absolutely everyone! I don't even really know how to put into words all the reasons why you should read it but if you do, you will understand.

Writing: 10/10

Characters: 9/10

Plot: 9/10

Ending: 10/10

Originality: 9/10

Overall: 47/50=A

Cover: 9/10=A-

Waiting On Wednesday: Bright Young Things

Book: Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen

Release date: October 26, 2010

Publisher: Harper Teen

Summary:
Bright Young Things is the first in an epic four-book series about three teenage girls finding their way in the glittering metropolis of New York City and the glamorous mansions of Long Island.

It’s 1929 and Letty Larkspur and Cordelia Grey have escaped their small Midwestern town to chase big dreams and even bigger secrets. In New York, they meet Astrid Donal, a flapper who has everything she could ever want, except for the one thing Letty and Cordelia have to offer—true friendship. Set in the dizzying summer before the market crash, against the vast lawns of the East End and on the blindingly lit stages of Broadway, the three girls will find romance, intrigue, and adventure.

Just as The Luxe books brought the Gilded Age to readers of Gossip Girl, Bright Young Things will bring the Jazz Age to bestselling author Anna Godbersen’s devoted fans and to new readers alike.

I loved the Luxe books. These sound very similar in subject matter, just in a different time period. If the writing is as good as the Luxe books then these should be amazing. I can't wait until October!

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab

Book: All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab

Release date: January 12, 2010

Pages: 352

Publisher: Delacorte BFYR

Source: Publisher

Summary:

Carly: She was sweet. Smart. Self-destructive. She knew the secrets of Brighton Day School’s most privileged students. Secrets that got her killed.

Neily: Dumped by Carly for a notorious bad boy, Neily didn’t answer the phone call she made before she died. If he had, maybe he could have helped her. Now he can’t get the image of her lifeless body out of his mind.

Audrey: She’s the reason Carly got tangled up with Brighton’s fast crowd in the first place, and now she regrets it—especially since she’s convinced the police have put the wrong person in jail. Audrey thinks the murderer is someone at Brighton, and she wants Neily to help her find out who it is.

As reluctant allies Neily and Audrey dig into their shared past with Carly, her involvement with Brighton’s dark goings-on comes to light. But figuring out how Carly and her killer fit into the twisted drama will force Audrey and Neily to face hard truths about themselves and the girl they couldn’t save.

*****

All Unquiet Things is one of the most beautifully written books that I have ever read. It was haunting and tragic but somehow so full of hope. It's hard to believe that this is Anna Jarzab's debut novel.

Neilly Monroe and Audrey Ribelli are both grieving for Carly Ribelli. They both loved her but in very different ways. For some reason, Carly's death still haunts Neilly. Her killer is behind bars so why does he feel as if he is missing something? Audrey knows what he is missing. Her dad may be in prison for Carly's murder but the real killer is still out there. And together they will bring him down.

One of the things that I loved about All Unquiet Things was the way the story was told. There were sections from Neilly's point-of-view and sections from Audrey's. It was a great way to show the different ways that they saw Carly. The flashbacks also really made it feel like I knew Carly. She wasn't just some dead girl, she was real. The book wouldn't have been nearly as good without seeing both sides of Carly.

The plot was spectacular. It was a little boring in the beginning but it picked up pretty quickly and didn't slow down for the rest of the book. I never could have guessed who the real murderer was and I could not stop reading until I found out.

Overall, All Unquiet Things is a fantastic book that I recommend to everyone. Everything about it was awesome and I can't wait for more from debut novelist, Anna Jarzab.

Writing: 10/10

Characters: 8/10

Plot: 9/10

Ending: 10/10

Originality: 9/10

Overall: 46/50=A-

Cover: 10/10=A++ (totally creepy!)

In My Mailbox 54

In My Mailbox is a meme created by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie! It is a list of what books you have received over the previous week, either in the mail, from the bookstore, from the library, or from trades. =]

For review:

-Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

-My Invisible Boyfriend by Susie Day

-Poisoned Honey by Beatrice Gormley

-She Thief by Daniel Finn

-The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

-Vintage Veronica by Erica S. Perl

-Wereling by Steve Feasey

From trades/won:

-She's So Money by Cherry Cheva

-Swoon by Nina Malkin

-Best Bet (Hallie Palmer #4) by Laura Pedersen

-My Soul To Save (Soul Screamers #2) by Rachel Vincent

-One Foot In The Grave (Night Huntress #2) by Jeaniene Frost

-The Angel Experiment (Maximum Ride #1) by James Patterson

I am shocked that I managed to go another week without buying any books. And believe me, there are some books that I want. I just need to save my money right now but hopefully I will be able to buy a couple that I really want soon. I have been trading a lot more, though so that helps me hold off. =]

This week I loved the books that Random House sent me. They always send me gorgeous hardcover copies of their books and this week I got three that I was really looking forward to. I plan on reading The Forest Of Hands And Teeth and The Dead Tossed Waves very soon so be on the lookout for those reviews. Other than that, I got some great ARCs and seeing as next week is Spring Break, I will get the chance to read them. Yay!

What was in your mailbox this week?

Albatross by Josie Bloss

Book: Albatross by Josie Bloss

Release date: February 1, 2010

Publisher: Flux

From: Publisher

Summary:
What's so cool about nice guys?

Everyone at Tess's new school warns her that Micah is bad news—a heartbreaker. But she can't ignore her attraction to this brooding, brilliant, friendless emo hottie who can turn on the charm—or heart-shredding scorn—at a moment's notice. Starting over in a new town after her parents' split isn't easy for Tess, and Micah feels like her first real connection. But what happens when their bond suddenly feels like shackles? And Micah starts to remind Tess of her freakishly controlling father?

*****

I really had no idea what to expect when I started Albatross. I hadn't read any reviews and the summary didn't give much away. I kind of liked not knowing what was coming and in the end I really liked the book.

Tess is new in town. After a rough divorce she moves to a new town in Michigan with her mom, one where she knows no one and doesn't really care. All that changes when she meets Micah. He is unlike anyone Tess has ever known and she is immediately drawn to him. Despite everyone warning her against him, Tess begins to spend more and more of her time with him. Will Tess' friends warnings prove to be true or will things be different with Tess and Micah?

One of the drawbacks about Ablatross was that it didn't immediately capture my attention. It was only once I got about 60 pages in that I became interested in the story. The first part was background and it was a little boring. Once I got past that part I enjoyed the book and read it pretty quickly.

Tess wasn't a very strong heroine through most of the book and it bugged me. I hated how she acted with Micah and how she wasn't confident in herself at all. She finally grew as a character towards the end of the book and that was when I started to like her, when she got a backbone. And all I will say about Micah is that he was a dick. You will have to read the book to find out why.

Overall, Albatross was a really good book and really unique. It wasn't a happy book most of the time but it had me smiling at the end. I definitely plan on checking out Josie Bloss' other books.

Writing: 9/10

Characters: 8/10

Plot: 8/10

Ending: 10/10

Originality: 9/10

Overall: 42/50=B-

Cover:8/10=B-

Mia The Magnificent by Eileen Boggess

Book: Mia The Magnificent by Eileen Boggess

Release date: January 4, 2010

Publisher: Bancroft Press

From: Publisher

Summary:

After one summer at the Little Tykes Theatre, Mia Fullerton is meek no more, but that doesn t make her life any easier not in her sophomore year at St. Hilary's, when her best friend Lisa forces her into a dangerously big part in The Music Man. Not when her ex-boyfriend, Tim, is teaching her little brother Chris to treat women like objects. And not when she learns to drive with serious repercussions. Who is Mia? Is she an independent girl like Zoe, her acerbic goth friend from Little Tykes? She d like to be that s why she's volunteering to be onstage for the first time, in a show populated by her first ex and childhood crush Jake, her arch-nemesis Cassie, and new girl in town Alyssa. Thats why it's so important she overcome the bizarre driving instruction of St. Hilary's janitor Mr. Corrigan to earn her driver s license, and therefore her freedom. Or is she the girl who misses Tim, even after the way he betrayed her? Tim is smart, funny, and likeable in a distinctly obnoxious way, and he s determined to win Mia back even if he has a funny way of doing so, dating both Cassie and Alyssa at the same time, behind both their backs. Can Mia forgive Tim? Should she instead choose Eric, Zoe's cousin, a nicer and more respectful choice in every way? Or would either choice defeat her goals of independence? And when the worst-case scenarios rear their heads when Mia is forced into the lead in The Music Man, when her first night out on the road goes horribly, when Chris appears headed entirely to the dark side does Mia on her own have what it takes to set things right?

*****

Mia The Magnificent is not a book you judge by it's cover. When I first saw it, I assumed it was a middle grade book and that Mia was younger. It's actually a YA book and Mia is a sophomore in high school. Not only that, she is one of the funniest characters I have ever read about and Mia The Magnificent is a super cute book!

Mia Fullerton is finally taking charge of her life. After her summer working at the Little Tykes Theater she is a new person. Her sophomore year is going to be The Year. She is going to try out for the school musical, get her drivers license, and move on from Tim. She has it all mapped out but even the best laid plans can be changed.

Mia was one of the best main characters I have ever read about. She was so easy to relate to and she was such a normal person. She had her strengths and her weaknesses. She was cute and funny. I found myself laughing out loud at so many parts of the book. Her banter with Tim and the conversations in the drivers ed car were some of my favorite things. I haven't laughed that hard at a book in a while.

The plot of the story was pretty good. Mia had so many things going on but it was definitely an honest account of high school life. She was so brave trying out for the play. I never could have done that. Her drivers ed class was also pretty realistic. It took me back to my drivers ed days, something I never want to look back on. The whole story was just so true and the characters were all people I wouldn't mind reading more about.

Overall, Mia The Magnificent is a great book that I really recommend for high schoolers. It's the third in a series but I had no problems starting with this book. I hope there are more Mia books in the future. If so, they will definitely be added to my to-read list! =]

Writing: 9/10

Characters: 9/10

Plot: 8/10

Ending: 9/10

Originality: 9/10

Overall:44/50=B+

Cover: 8/10=B-

Waiting On Wednesday: The Star Shack

Book: The Star Shack by Lila Castle

Release date: June 1, 2010

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

Summary:
Pete and Annabelle live for their summers together on Gingerbread Beach. They've always believed they were a perfect pair… until junior year, when Annabelle becomes obsessed with astrology. Now they can hardly stand each other. Pete thinks that Annabelle (a Leo) has become a total flake; Annabelle thinks Pete (a Scorpio) has become an uptight jerk.

When Annabelle dares Pete to open a summer business on the Boardwalk generating personalized horoscopes, their fast-paced, hilarious bickering soon rises to a fever pitch. The he-said/she-said advice of the Star Shack is wildly popular and seems able to fix any relationship problem… except their own.

But when one of Annabelle's star charts helps catch a thief, Pete might have to admit that the stars could really hold the key to the future…and to his own heart.

My reasons for wanting to read this right now:

1- It looks super cute. It will be one of the perfect summer reads. It's doesn't look deep and sometimes it's just fun to read a light book.

2-Astrology has always been interesting to me so it should be fun to read a book about a girl who is obsessed with it.

3- The cover is cute. That always seems to be one of my deciding factors in picking my Waiting On Wednesdays.

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

BEA 2010

So, who else is for sure going to BEA this year? Because it looks like I am!

I wanted to go so badly last year but it just would not have worked out with school but now that I am in college I will be out of classes by then and everything will work out perfectly. The only problem right now is that I need to figure out all the details.

I have read pretty much every post about tips for BEA that I have been able to find and I have been asking everyone for ideas. I may have even gone a little overboard. It's just, this is something that I want to be prepared for.

So my questions for everyone that is planning on going to BEA.

1- Are you rooming with someone?

2- Have you been to BEA in the past?

3- What day do you plan on getting into the city?

Also, if you are looking for a roommate, there is a great post about that over at The Neverending Shelf. You can check it out here.

Oh and if you don't feel comfortable commenting on the post, feel free to email me. I am also currently looking for a roommate or two so let me know if you would be interested! I am a little nervous because one of the conditions of me getting to go is that I get a roommate and this is what I call waiting till the last minute. Oh well, at least I didn't wait till May 24. =]

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Book: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Release date: March 2, 2010 (TODAY!)

Publisher: HarperTeen

From: Publisher

Summary:

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all—looks, popularity, the perfect boyfriend. Friday, February 12th should be just another day in her charmed life. Instead, it’s her last. The catch: Samantha still wakes up the next morning. In fact, she re-lives the last day of her life seven times, until she realizes that by making even the slightest changes, she may hold more power than she had ever imagined.

*****

I have no words to describe Before I Fall. It's an absolutely stunning debut novel that I couldn't put down. I never wanted it to end and not that I have finished it, I can't stop thinking about it.

February 12 is a normal day for Sam Kingston, right up to the part where she dies. What's even weirder is that she wakes up the next day. Except it's not the next day, it's the same day and Sam gets to live it over. In fact, she gets to live it over seven times. Each day is exactly the same as the original except for what Sam does. Sam has the power to change everything about that day and maybe even save her own life.

Sam was not someone I liked to begin with. In fact, I couldn't stand her or her friends. They were all so mean and full of themselves. I almost gave up reading because I didn't like them but boy am I glad I stuck it out. I don't think the story would have had nearly as much impact if Sam was a good person to begin with. It just wouldn't have worked. I get that now but it did bug me in the beginning.

The story itself was amazing. It was so unique. It was really cool to see how changing one little thing can change the whole course of things. It's not something I have ever thought about in depth but I don't think I will be able to stop myself now. =]

Overall, Before I Fall is a beautiful debut novel that I will be buying a finished copy of. I also recommend that everyone do the same thing because it is one book you will want to read over and over again. I know my review didn't do it justice so you should read it and find out for yourself how great it is!

Writing: 10/10

Characters: 10/10

Plot: 10/10

Ending: 10/10

Originality: 10/10

Overall: 50/50=A++

Cover: 10/10=A++

Bookish News: Cover Edition!

So, I was just browsing on paperbackswap and came upon some covers that I have not seen. I even checked Goodreads and they aren't there. Now, I don't know if these are final covers but I love them.

First off, Like Mandarin. This one is a 2011 debut novel and you can find the cover on Goodreads.

Summary:

It's hard to find beauty in the badlands of Washokey, Wyoming. Fourteen-year-old Grace Carpenter knows it's not her mother's pageant obsessions, or the cowboy dances and pickup trucks adored by her small-town classmates. True beauty is wild girl Mandarin Ramey: seventeen, shameless and utterly carefree.

Grace would give ANYTHING to be like Mandarin.

When the two misfits are united for a project, they embark on an unlikely, explosive friendship, packed with nights spent skinny-dipping in the canal, liberating the town's animal-head trophies, and constantly searching for someplace magic. Grace even plays along when Mandarin suggests they make a pact to run away together. Blame it on the crazy-making wildwinds that plague their badlands town.

But all too soon, Grace discovers Mandarin's unique beauty hides a girl who's troubled, broken and even dangerous. And no matter how hard Grace fights to keep the magic, even the best friendships can't withstand betrayal.

Next up are the two that I haven't been able to find anywhere else.

If you didn't already know, I love the Blue Bloods series. Keys To The Repository is a collection of short stories about the characters in the Blue Bloods series and it will be released on May 25 of this year.

Summary:

Lavish parties. Passionate meetings in the night. Bone-chilling murders. Midterms. The day-to-day life of Schuyler Van Alen and her Blue Bloods friends (and enemies) is never boring. But there's oh-so-much more to know about these beautiful and powerful teens. Below the streets of Manhattan, within the walls of the Repository, exists a wealth of revealing information about the vampire elite that dates back before the Mayflower. In a series of short stories, journal entries, and never-before-seen letters, New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz gives her hungry fans the keys to the Repository and an even more in-depth look into the secret world of the Blue Bloods. Won't you come inside?

Last but not least is a book by Elizabeth Scott. I'm pretty sure almost everyone has read at least one of her books. So far I have loved them all and this one definitely won't disappoint.

Summary:

A fable of a terrifying near future by critically acclaimed author Elizabeth Scott.

Grace was raised to be an Angel, a herald of death by suicide bomb. But she refuses to die for the cause, and now Grace is on the run, daring to dream of freedom. In search of a border she may never reach, she travels among malevolent soldiers on a decrepit train crawling through the desert. Accompanied by the mysterious Kerr, Grace struggles to be invisible, but the fear of discovery looms large as she recalls the history and events that delivered her uncertain fate.

Told in spare, powerful prose, this tale of a dystopian near future will haunt readers long after they've reached the final page.

I love all of these covers and I hope they are the final versions. I really like how the Blue Bloods book looks like the rest of the series. I like matching books.

So, what do you guys think? Also, if you want a bigger image just click on them. =]