Wednesday, November 30, 2011

The Forbidden Book Club!



Ever since Forbidden came out this past June, I have been wanting to read it.  I admit though that I have been a little scared.  The subject matter (brother/sister in love) is very taboo and I don't know how I will feel about it.  When I heard about this book club, I figured it would be the perfect opportunity for me to get it read!

The book club is starting the book next Wednesday (12/7/11) so you should have plenty of time to get your hands on a copy!   

If you would like to join in on this little book club make a post on your blog and add it to the linky over on the main blog post at Reading Teen!  You can also find out more info about the book club in that post!

This Is Teen Giveaway!

Thanks to Big Honcho Media and Scholastic, I have three very awesome books to giveaway!  These three books happen to be perfect for guys and just in time for the holidays.  =)

Underdogs
By Markus Zusak
Before The Book Thief, Markus Zusak wrote a trilogy of novels about the Wolfe brothers: The Underdogs, Fighting Ruben Wolfe, and Getting the Girl. Cameron and Ruben Wolfe are champions at getting into fights, coming up with half-baked schemes, and generally disappointing girls, their parents, and their much more motivated older siblings. They’re intensely loyal to each other, brothers at their best and at their very worst. But when Cameron falls head over heels for Ruben’s girlfriend, the strength of their bond is tested to its breaking point.

The Eleventh Plague
By Jeff Hirsch
“The Eleventh Plague hits disturbingly close to home…An excellent, taut debut novel.” – Suzanne Collins, author of The Hunger Games
In the aftermath of a war, America’s landscape has been ravaged and two thirds of the population left dead from a vicious strain of influenza. Fifteen-year-old Stephen Quinn and his family were among the few that survived and became salvagers, roaming the country in search of material to trade for food and other items essential for survival. But when Stephen’s grandfather dies and his father falls into a coma after an accident, Stephen finds his way to Settler’s Landing, a community that seems too good to be true, where there are real houses, barbecues, a school, and even baseball games. Then Stephen meets strong, defiant, mischievous Jenny, who refuses to accept things as they are. And when they play a prank on the town bully’s family that goes horribly wrong, chaos erupts, and they find themselves in the midst of a battle that will change Settler’s Landing forever.

iBoy
By Kevin Brooks
Before the attack, Tom Harvey was just an average teen. But a head-on collision with high technology has turned him into an actualized App. Fragments of a shattered iPhone are embedded in his brain. And they’re having an extraordinary effect on his every thought. Because now Tom knows, sees, and can do more than any normal boy ever could. But with his new powers comes a choice: Seek revenge on the vicious gangs who rule the South London housing project where he lives, and who violated his friend Lucy? Or keep quiet and move on? Not even the search engine in his head can predict the shocking outcome of iBoy’s actions. A wifi, thriller by YA master Kevin Brooks.

Check out the This Is Teen Facebook page!

Details:
-One winner will receive all three books!

Requirements:
-You must have a US mailing address.
-You must fill out the form to be entered.
-The giveaway ends Dec. 14!
Fill out the form here!

Waiting On Wednesday: Lucky Fools

Title:  Lucky Fools
Author:  Coert Voorhees
Release date:  July 10, 2012
When high school senior David Ellison’s parents told him he could do anything he set his mind to, acting isn’t exactly what they had in mind. Even though he’s the leading man at his prep school, David is expected to go to an Ivy League college after graduating. But David has his eye on auditioning for the Ivy of acting schools—Juilliard.

As if throwing away the last four years of private school isn't enough, David is also on track to throw away his relationship with his girlfriend, Ellen. This year, David's co-star is a new student, the beautiful and vivacious Vanessa. She's exactly the kind of girl everyone dreams of going out with, and a girl David gets to kiss—under a spotlight—on a regular basis.

As the college application process heats up, David’s real life is suddenly as full of drama as his life on the stage. Someone named The Artist is sabotaging the best and brightest students of Oak Fields High by ruining their chances of getting into college, and it looks like David might be next. As senior year races to the final act, David is under a ton of pressure not to get crushed by his competition, that is, if The Artist doesn’t get to him first.
As I was looking up books for the 2012 YA Contemporary Challenge I stumbled across this one.  The cover and the summary alone have me hooked.  It sounds very unique and fun.  I can't wait until July to check this one out!

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

Monday, November 28, 2011

The Probability Of Miracles by Wendy Wunder

Title: The Probability Of Miralces
Author: Wendy Wunder
Release date:  December 8, 2011
Publisher: Razorbill
Pages: 336
Source: Trade
Dry, sarcastic, sixteen-year-old Cam Cooper has spent the last seven years in and out hospitals. The last thing she wants to do in the short life she has left is move 1,500 miles away to Promise, Maine - a place known for the miraculous events that occur there. But it's undeniable that strange things happen in Promise: everlasting sunsets; purple dandelions; flamingoes in the frigid Atlantic; an elusive boy named Asher; and finally, a mysterious envelope containing a list of things for Cam to do before she dies. As Cam checks each item off the list, she finally learns to believe - in love, in herself, and even in miracles.
This may be one of the hardest reviews I have ever had to write.  I know I loved this book but it is hard to put into words how awesome it is.  I am going to try to describe to you how much I loved it but fair warning that this review will be non-stop gushing.

Campbell (Cam) Cooper has lived with cancer for 7 years.  She always knew it would kill her but she didn't know she wouldn't live to see her eighteenth birthday.  She was a little closed-off because she didn't want to make friends only to be taken away from them.  Things change when she moves to Promise though.  She doesn't mean to make friends but somehow she does.  And then there is Asher who might be more than a friend.  Asher was sweet, funny, helpful, and wise.  He was the perfect balance to dry, sarcastic, hopeless Cam.  And then there was Cam's family.  I thought my family was embarrassing but they have nothing on the Coopers.  Alicia and Perry were a little overenthusiastic but really sweet and loving.  Nana was hilarous!  I can't even put into words how funny she was.

The story was heartbreaking.  Cam knows it is her last summer so she lives it to the fullest.  She makes friends, possibly finds lover, and witnesses so many miracles.  It can only make her hope for a miracle of her own, one she may or may not get.

Overall, The Probability Of Miracles is one of the most beautiful, heartbreaking books I have ever read.  I definitely went through a whole box of tissues.  There were times I laughed so hard I cried and then there were times when I was so sad I bawled like a baby. Wendy Wunder is an author to watch for and I can't wait to see what writes next.

First line:  When Campbell's father died, he left her $1,262.56 - as much as he'd been able to sock away during his twenty-year gig as the fire dancer for the "Spirit of Aloha" show at Disney's Polynesian Hotel.

Rating:  A++

Sunday, November 27, 2011

2012 YA Contemporary Challenge Buttons!









All buttons made by Cialina from Muggle-Born.Net

2012 YA Contemporary Challenge!

Contemporary YA has always been my favorite genre. Sarah Dessen is really the author that got me into reading. My blog would not exist without her books so I figure this is the perfect way to honor those books! So with the help of Angela from Reading Angel, I introduce to you the 2012 YA Contemporary Challenge!

Levels:
Level 1: 5+ books
Level 2: 10+ books
Level 3: 15+ books

Rules:
You can read any contemporary YA novel that is published between January 1, 2012 and December 30, 2012 but you must read them in 2012! (All formats accepted: paperback, ARC, e-book)

Books included:
We have created a spreadsheet (organized by release date) for contemporary YA books published in 2012. If there is a book that is not on the spreadsheet that you know fits the guidelines, let us know and we will add it.  There is also a Goodreads list.  You can use either one.  Currently the spreadsheet has more books on it.

Spreadsheet

Goodreads list

Authors:
If you have a contemporary YA book coming out in 2012 we would love it if you would participate. We would love it if you would be interested in donating swag/books or being featured here on Katie’s Book Blog or Reading Angel. If you are interested, fill out the form here! (You can also email me!)

Participants:
Anyone who has a blog or a Goodreads where they can post reviews is eligible to participate.

Why you should participate:
Contemporary YA is an awesome genre. Isn’t that enough of a reason?
If not, there will also be giveaways throughout the year as well as one grand prize giveaway at the end of the year. Does that motivate you? =)

How to sign up:
Create a list on your blog or Goodreads with your list of books. You can create a list of books that you want to read or start a blank list and add the books as you read them. Once you have created your list come back here and add it to the linky below! Make sure that you post it on the same blog/Goodreads that you are going to post your reviews on throughout the year.

Sign-ups end May 1, 2012

Saturday, November 26, 2011

In My Mailbox 135 (week of November 26)

In my mailbox is a meme created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie. It is a list of what books you have received over the previous week, either for review, from the library, from the bookstore, or from trades.


Awesome bloggers mentioned:
-Angela from Reading Angel

Gifted:
-The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab (signed!)

For review:
-Hunted by Cheryl Rainfield
-This One Time With Julia by David Lampson
-Dark Eyes by William Richter
-Immortal City by Scott Speer

Bought:
-Let's Get Lost by Sarra Manning
-Future Imperfect by K. Ryer Breese
-Oathbreaker: A Prince Among Killers by SR Vaught and JB Redmond
-Troy High by Shana Norris

Friday, November 25, 2011

Christmas Wishlist (Part 2)!

So I posted my book wishlist the other day but I had someone ask about what else I want for Christmas.

The big thing:

I currently have a camera but it has not been cooperating lately and it is rather old.  This one looks simple enough that I can figure it out but it should take nice pictures.  =)



I love Betsey Johnson jewelry.  Her stuff is so cute and quirky.  =)

Once again, Betsey Johnson is amazing.  This is such a cute necklace!  I really need to stop looking at her website.


Do I even need to say anything about this one? It is an awesome Hunger Games calendar!



I have been told by so many people that I have to watch this series. I figure it is past time that I listen.



My brother loves this show.  He usually has pretty good taste in TV shows so I figured I would give it a shot.



I actually don't like this color at all but I can't find a picture of the color that I want.  I actually want a couple of these in different colors and patterns.  

So this is the bulk of my Christmas wishlist.  My parents know me very well and they usually get me a bunch of other little things.  I don't usually pick out clothes and things because my mom never remembers them when she goes shopping without me.  I trust that she knows what I like and she has free rein as far as that goes.  She also usually comes up with a ton of other awesome ideas that I never would have thought of on my own.

So what are you guys hoping to get for Christmas this year?

Thursday, November 24, 2011

2011 Book Oscars!

As most of you know, I am part of a collaborative Youtube channel, Totally Booksessed, with Harmony, Bailey, Lauren, and Audrey.  This year we are hosting the 2011 Book Oscars!

What does this mean for you guys?

You get to nominate the books!

There are fourteen categories and you can nominate up to 3 books for each category (one book per category is preferred.)  The only stipulation is that the book must be a 2011 release.

Nominations will be open until November 30.

Final round voting will begin December 5.

We will announce the winners in our Totally Booksessed videos the week of December 19.

You do not have to be subscribed to Totally Booksessed to nominate.  The winners will be announced on our blogs as well.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Turkey Day!

Hope your day is full of family and great food!

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Christmas Wishlist!

Christmas time is almost here and I have had a couple people ask about a wishlist.  I went ahead and created one on Amazon and if you have any interest, you can view it here!

(Please don't take this the wrong way.  I am not asking any of you to send me books.)

Waiting On Wednesday: Dead To You

Title: Dead To You
Author: Lisa McMann
Release date: February 7, 2012
Ethan was abducted from his front yard when he was just seven years old. Now, at sixteen, he has returned to his family. It's a miracle... at first. Then the tensions start to build. His reintroduction to his old life isn't going smoothly, and his family is tearing apart all over again. If only Ethan could remember something, anything, about his life before, he'd be able to put the pieces back together. But there's something that's keeping his memory blocked. Something unspeakable...
Lisa McMann is seriously one of my favorite authors.  I have loved everything she has written so far.  This one sounds like it will be no different.  I do think it might scare me a little bit but so did Cryer's Cross and I still loved that one.  I really love the cover too!

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Unearthly (Unearthly #1) by Cynthia Hand

Title: Unearthly (Unearthly #1)
Author: Cynthia Hand
Release date: January 4, 2011
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 435
Source: Publisher
In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?
Boy am I glad I finally read this book.  I loved it!  Cynthia Hand's debut novel is a fresh new take on angels and if you haven't read it yet, you really should.

I did not care much for Clara in the beginning but that quickly changed. She cracked me up and I felt that I could relate to her (even though she was 1/4 angel.)  She was clumsy, nervous, the new kid, and crushing on a guy out of her league.  What teenage girl can't relate to that?  Luckily she had a great mom and brother and two fabulous friends.  Then, of course, there were the boys; Christian and Tucker.  I myself am Team Tucker all the way.  He was sweet, funny, and above all else, a gentleman.  He is the kind of guy that teenage girls should be crushing on.  =)

The plot was good.  It wasn't action-packed but there was enough going on to keep me interested and entertained. The ending also tied things up but left some questions unanswered for the next book.  I like that it wasn't a total cliffhanger.

Overall, Unearthly really was a fabulous book and the hype is 100% deserved.  I have high hopes for the sequel!

First line: In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees.

Rating:  A

Monday, November 21, 2011

Books By Their Covers (1)

Book By Their Covers is a new feature here on Katie's Book Blog.  It is created by me and it is a chance for me to share my love of book covers.  In this feature, I will pick one book cover and give you guys my opinion of it. =)

My opinion:  This is a perfect example of a book I would buy based on the cover alone. Everything about this cover is fabulous.  The colors blend together so well and seem to fit perfectly with the title of the book.  The tagline for this one also goes great with the cover.  The girls naked shoulder is super pale and it seems to fit with a theme of contagion.  I also like that the dress and parasol give the book a historical feeling that seem to tie it to the original Masque Of The Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe.  The fonts used throughout this cover are also great selections.  The title font is very eye-catching.

Rating:  A+

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Blogger Interview: Meredith from Mint Tea & A Good Book (My Little Sib)

Today I have a very special guest; my blogging little sis, Meredith from Mint Tea & A Good Book!
What do you like outside of blogging?

Studying.  And Reading.  Just Kidding... well sort of.  I’m a full time student (that makes me sound so professional doesn’t it!) I am constantly working on homework.  I also read whenever I get the chance and you will hardly ever catch me not armed with a book.  Sometimes I’m silly too.  And I love to eat and bake and play outside in beautiful weather.  Although I have trouble finding time to bake lately. ;)

What book changed your life?

Books are changing the way I look at things ALL THE TIME.  But one book that impacted my life in a HUGE way, was I’d Tell You I Love You, But then I’d Have to Kill You by Ally Carter.  I had always LIKED to read, but it wasn’t until I read this book that reading became an obsession.  I’d never connected with a character before like I had with the main character, Cammie.  And the book turned me onto reading more YA and before I knew it, reading was a serious obsession of mine.  So yeah, I owe a lot to Ally Carter.

What made you decide to start your blog?

Well, I was on Ally Carter’s blog because I used to kind of follow it religiously, and I kept seeing these links to people’s names who were leaving comments.  I kept clicking on the links and was linked to quite a few book blogs.  I was completely fascinated and awe-struck and I was kind of like, “Hey, I could do this too!”

What blogs/bloggers inspire you?

Every blogger that posts 3 times a week inspires me.  The fact that so many people with jam packed lives are putting in some times to share their thoughts on books is pretty amazing to me.

Some bloggers in specific:
- Kristi from The Story Siren (I don’t know how she does it!)
- Katie!! from Katie’s Book Blog (Awesome person and amazing blog)
- Farrah and Britney from I Eat Words (They do awesome vlogs)
- Lindsi from Books, Sweets, and Other Treats (Books and Sweets! That’s a win-win situation!)
- Ginger from GReads! (Makes me laugh and I love her reviews)
- Willa from Willa’s Ramblings (She makes me smile)
- Jamie from The Perpetual Page-Turner (She makes me laugh hysterically!)

What are your goals for your blog in the future?

I really would like to go to BEA eventually.  I don’t think this year will work, but maybe the following year?  But what I mainly want from book blogging is to meet new people and enjoy the book blogging community.  So far, the people I've met through book blogging have just blown me away and the book blogging community has accepted me with a warm embrace.  I love that!

Do you love or hate your mailman?

Love.  He’s really old with white tufts of hair on his head and we’ve had him as our mailman for as long as I can remember.  My dog doesn’t even mind him (although she still won’t eat his dog treats.)

Favorites:

-Book of all time: Err, it changes a lot. I know, that’s such a non-answer.

-New release: Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

-Genre: Contemporary YA... probably. But really, just YA in general.

-Place to Read: My bedroom or screened in porch if there’s nice weather.

-TV show: Hmm... maybe Project Runway, although I don’t think this season is very good.

-Candy: York/ Junior Mints. I love minty things! (hence, Mint Tea and a Good Book)

-Drink: Either Lemonade, Tea, or Warm Apple-y Cider. It really depends on my mood. :P

So, now you guys can see why I love Meredith so much!  She is awesome! Check her out over at Mint Tea And A Good Book and on Twitter!

Saturday, November 19, 2011

In My Mailbox 134 (week of November 19)

In my mailbox is a meme created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie. It is a list of what books you have received over the previous week, either for review, from the library, from the bookstore, or from trades.


For review:
-Rush by Jeremy Iversen
-Inheritance (Inheritance #4) by Christopher Paolini
-Partials by Dan Wells
-Pretty Crooked by Elisa Ludwig
-Balthazar by Claudia Gray
-Slide by Jill Hathaway
-Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez
-Kiss Of Frost (Mythos Academy #2) by Jennifer Estep
-The Catastrophic History Of You & Me by Jess Rothenberg
-A Temptation Of Angels by Michelle Zink
-Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

For giveaway:
-Tempest by Julie Cross

Bought:
-A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L'Engle
-Drink Deep (Chicagoland Vampires #5) by Chloe Neill

Blogging With Katie: Dealing With Publishers!


Gina asked:

I see a lot of bloggers receiving paperback ARC's in the mail from publishers.  I'm wondering how I find the correct person to contact if I want to put in a request. 

Usually publishers include an email on their website specifically for ARC requests.  These emails can usually be found under the Contact Us tab on the home page of the website.  It will either be at the very top of the page or at the very bottom of the page.  There are also a few publishers who do not have these email addresses available to bloggers.  Those publishers usually prefer to contact the bloggers they want to work with.

A few helpful pages:

Harper Collins Blogger Contact List

Simon & Schuster Blogger Contact List

Penguin Blogger Contact List

Hachette Book Group Blogger Contact List

(All documents from Book Blogger Convention 2011)

(Emailing one of the provided email addresses does not guarantee a response or an ARC.)

Juhina & Farah/Farhana asked:

We are international bloggers and we are hoping later on (in a month or two when we get more followers) that we can email or contact publishers for review books (or ebooks) but we don't know how to do that or if its early or if some publishers don't do international bloggers. 

Now, I am not an international blogger so I don't know exactly how this works but I have asked around and I am going to give it my best answer.

Depending on what country you are in, there will be publishers within your country that you can contact about review books. Those are going to be your best chances for review books unless you are a very popular blog with a big following.  Those seem to be the main type of international blogs that get books from US publishers for review.

If you are interested in ebooks there is always Netgalley and Galley Grab.  For each book you request on Netgalley you have to be approved by the publisher but on Galley Grab you fill out the application and if you are approved you can get any of the ebooks included in the monthly newsletter.  I know the publishers do look on your profile to see if you are international but I do not know how that affects their decision to grant you access to the ebook.

Jessica asked:

How can you become a part of a Blog Tour through a publisher?

This is a very tricky question because it is different for every publisher.  For some publishers they have a set of bloggers that they generally ask to participate.  A lot of the time all of the bloggers are interested so the publisher does not need to look for more bloggers.  Some of the time a publisher will see that you are interested in the book and ask if you would be willing to review it as part of a blog tour.  Having a set time helps the publisher know that it will get reviewed and it also tends to get more publicity for the book.  A good way to let publishers know that you are interested in blog tours is by including that in your review request.  Not all bloggers are open for blog tours so it is good to let the publisher know that you are.

Jessica asked:

How do you get blurbed on a book jacket?

I honestly have no idea how you get blurbed on a book jacket.  I have been blurbed in two books and I did not even know I was blurbed until a reader pointed it out. I assume that publishers look for good quotes from big name blogs that people will recognize.  Don't quote me on that though because I have no idea if it is true or not.  =)

So I tried to combine some of the questions because a lot of you guys wanted to know the same things.  For my next blogging with Katie post I am going to focus on blog design so if you want to know anything about design fill out the form!


Also, Angela asked:

How much do you LURRRRVVVVE me??????

I lurrrrvvvve Angela a lot.  You guys should check out her blog.  

Friday, November 18, 2011

First Line Friday (8)

First Line Friday is a feature created by me, where I post five first lines from some books that I have on my TBR pile. You guys then get to vote, based on the first lines, for the book that I will read next!  =)

Title: Fire
Author: Kristin Cashore
Release date: October 6, 2009
Larch often thought that if it had not been for his newborn son, he never would have survived his wife Mikra's death.  
Title: Beautiful Darkness (Caster Chronicles #2)
Author: Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Release date: October 12, 2010
I used to think our town, buried in the South Carolina backwoods, stuck in the muddy bottom of the Santee River valley, was the middle of nowhere.  A place where nothing ever happened and nothing would ever change.
Title: The Future Of Us
Author: Jay Asher & Carolyn Mackler
Release date: November 21, 2011
In 1996 less than half of all American high school students had ever used the internet.

Facebook would not be invented until several years in the future.

Emma & Josh are about to log on to their futures.
Title: Tempest (Tempest #1)
Author: Julie Cross
Release date: January 17, 2012

Okay, so it's true.  I can time-travel.  But it's not as exciting as it sounds.
Title: Under The Never Sky
Author: Veronica Rossi
Release date: January 3, 2012

They called the world beyond the walls of the Pod "the Death Shop."  A million ways to die out there.  Aria never thought she'd get so close.


So based on these first lines which book would you like me to read and review next?

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Blog Tour: Open Minds by Susan Kaye Quinn

Title:  Open Minds (Mindjack Trilogy #1)
Author:  Susan Kaye Quinn
Release date:  November 1, 2011
Pages:  326
Source:  Author
When everyone reads minds, a secret is a dangerous thing to keep.

Sixteen-year-old Kira Moore is a zero, someone who can’t read thoughts or be read by others. Zeros are outcasts who can’t be trusted, leaving her no chance with Raf, a regular mindreader and the best friend she secretly loves. When she accidentally controls Raf’s mind and nearly kills him, Kira tries to hide her frightening new ability from her family and an increasingly suspicious Raf. But lies tangle around her, and she’s dragged deep into a hidden world of mindjackers, where having to mind control everyone she loves is just the beginning of the deadly choices before her.
Open Minds is one of those books that hasn't been getting a lot of buzz around the blogosphere but it definitely deserves some.  The first book in the Mindjack trilogy is gripping, suspenseful, shocking, and at times, sweet.  I have high hopes for the sequel!

Kira Moore believes she is a zero, someone who can't read minds.  That makes her an outcast in her world until she finds out she is a mindjacker.  She can not only read minds, she can control them as well.  This makes life very difficult for her because mindjackers are very rare and considered to be very dangerous by the government.  Kira tries her hardest to keep her secret but that soon becomes impossible.  Will Kira be able to prove to everyone that mindjackers aren't really bad people or will she die trying?

Kira was an absolutely fabulous heroine.  She was brave, smart, resourceful, and kind.  She always put the needs of others before her own and she always tried to help.  Sure there were times where I was annoyed with one of her decisions but in the end I loved her.  Simon, Raf, Laney, Molloy, Xander, all the characters were great in their own ways.  They were very well-developed and easy to understand.

The plot was a little slow in the beginning but it quickly picked up and I was hooked. Things take off when Kira gets her mindjack abilities and they don't really slow down until the end of the book.  There were times when my heart was racing and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!

Overall, Open Minds is a book that I definitely recommend.  Dystopian fans will love it and I am sure that once you read it you will be dying for more.

Rating:  A-

Blog Tour: Interview with Susan Kaye Quinn + Giveaway

Today I am lucky enough to have Susan Kaye Quinn, the author of Open Minds, here on the blog for an interview.  Check back later this afternoon for my review of the book if you are curious about it before entering the giveaway.
KBB: Why did you decide to write a novel for young adults?

SKQ: I have three boys, ages 8, 10, and 13, and two nieces who are teens, so I could say that I write for them. And it is true that I fell in love with middle grade and young adult books because I was reading them with my kids and sharing them with my nieces. But I hadn’t written any fiction since I was a teenager myself, scribbling notes to my friends in class. When I was drawn back to writing fiction as an adult, only a few years ago, I think my teenaged writer self just picked up where she left off. :)

KBB: What do you think makes your book stand out in today’s market?

SKQ: People seem to be drawn to the cover (many thanks to my awesome cover designer) and to the concept (a world where everyone reads minds, except one girl). Paranormal and science fiction novels for YA are very hot right now, but Open Minds blends the two genres, and turns some of the tropes upside down. Many paranormal novels have mindreaders, but not a world where everyone reads minds. A lot of dystopias (which I love) have taken dire looks at the future, but don’t often blend in paranormal elements. Overall, the feedback so far seems to be that people find it unique. And it makes them think, which I like best of all. :)

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

SKQ: Tea. Black. No sugar or cream or any of that sissy stuff. In fact I have a lovely pot of tea in front of me right now! #happiness

KBB: What kind of books do you read in your spare time? Do you read the same genre that you write?

SKQ: I do read a lot of middle grade and young adult (since I write both, and because I love the stories). I don’t read a lot of adult fiction anymore - the pacing of young adult novels has ruined me for slower paced adult novels! And I read books on writing, but that’s all business.

KBB: Can you tell us anything about what you are currently working on?

SKQ: Right now, I’m drafting Closed Hearts, the sequel to Open Minds. I have a couple middle grade projects in the works (one science fiction, one fantasy), but those are on the back burner while I get Closed Hearts under way. It’s exciting to be writing the second book while people are reading and reviewing the first!

KBB: What is one young adult book that you would recommend?

SKQ: Only one? Ack. Ok ... I’m going with White Cat (and Red Glove, the sequel, wait, that’s two!) by Holly Black. I adore her writing style, and I couldn’t love Cassel (the main character) anymore if I was a seventeen year old again myself.

KBB: Thanks so much for taking time to answer a few of my questions! I can't wait to read Closed Hearts!

                       

Giveaway!

To be entered to win an ebook of Open Minds all you have to do is comment on this post (with your email)!

This giveaway will end on November 30!

Past Perfect by Leila Sales

Title:  Past Perfect
Author:  Leila Sales
Release date: October 4, 2011
Publisher:  Simon Pulse
Pages:  322
Source:  Bookstore
All Chelsea wants to do this summer is hang out with her best friend, hone her talents as an ice cream connoisseur, and finally get over Ezra, the boy who broke her heart. But when Chelsea shows up for her summer job at Essex Historical Colonial Village (yes, really), it turns out Ezra’s working there too. Which makes moving on and forgetting Ezra a lot more complicated…even when Chelsea starts falling for someone new.

Maybe Chelsea should have known better than to think that a historical reenactment village could help her escape her past. But with Ezra all too present, and her new crush seeming all too off limits, all Chelsea knows is that she’s got a lot to figure out about love. Because those who don’t learn from the past are doomed to repeat it….
Past Perfect is the perfect book to read when you are in the mood for something light and fun.  So many books these days are very dark and Past Perfect is the perfect book to counteract those.  (Not that I don't love my dark books.) =)

Past Perfect is not your typical chick-lit romance novel.  It actually has a very entertaining plot that doesn't just focus on the romance. There is a war going on between the two historical reenactment villages and it was quite hilarious to read about.  There are some devious teenagers.  I loved reading about the crazy schemes they came up with. They were laugh out loud funny!

There was a great cast of characters in this book. Chelsea was a bit annoying at first because of her obsession with her ex-boyfriend but she quickly outgrew that.  Her best friend, Fiona, was a surprisingly great friend.  No backstabbing from her!  Dan was a bit awkward but in the best possible way.  His interactions with Chelsea cracked me up.  The miliner girls were my least favorite characters but they weren't too bad.  Bryan cracked me up and Chelsea's dad reminded me a lot of my own.

Overall, Past Perfect is a great chick lit novel with a bit more to it.  It's funny, sweet, and a super easy read  Perfect for a rainy day!

First line:  There are only three types of kids who get summer jobs at the Colonial Essex Village instead of just working at the mall, like normal people do.

Rating:  A

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Waiting On Wednesday: In Honor

Title: In Honor
Author: Jessi Kirby
Release date: May 8, 2012
Honor receives her brother’s last letter from Iraq three days after learning that he died, and opens it the day his fellow Marines lay the flag over his casket. Its contents are a complete shock: concert tickets to see Kyra Kelly, her favorite pop star and Finn's celebrity crush. In his letter, he jokingly charged Honor with the task of telling Kyra Kelly that he was in love with her.

Grief-stricken and determined to grant Finn's last request, she rushes to leave immediately. But she only gets as far as the driveway before running into Rusty, Finn's best friend since third grade and his polar opposite. She hasn't seen him in ages, thanks to a falling out between the two guys, but Rusty is much the same as Honor remembers him: arrogant, stubborn. . . and ruggedly good looking. Neither one is what the other would ever look for in a road trip partner, but the two of them set off together, on a voyage that makes sense only because it doesn’t. Along the way, they find small and sometimes surprising ways to ease their shared loss and honor Finn—but when shocking truths are revealed at the end of the road, will either of them be able to cope with the consequences?
I cannot even put into words how much I want to read this book!  I need it now! Jessi Kirby's debut novel, Moonglass, was fantastic and this one sounds even better.  I love road-trip books and this one sounds sadder than most but still awesome.  Also, the brother's best friend, Rusty? Arrogant, stubborn, and ruggedly good looking?  I like the sound of that.  =)

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

Monday, November 14, 2011

Unison Spark by Andy Marino

Title:  Unison Spark
Author:  Andy Marino
Release date:  November 8, 2011
Publisher:  Henry Holt & Co.
Pages:  240
Source:  Publisher
Everyone is obsessed with Unison, the social network that knows you better than you know yourself. Everyone who can afford it, that is. Living beneath the vast ceiling that separates Eastern Seaboard City into rich topside and poor sub-canopy zones, fifteen-year-old Mistletoe can only dream of logging in and has to make do with technological hand-me-downs.

Worlds collide when Ambrose Truax, the privileged heir to the Unison empire, wanders into the dangerous sub-canopy streets and Mistletoe saves him from suspicious, uniformed men. They soon discover that they share eerily similar dreams, hinting at a significant past.

Together, Ambrose and Mistletoe begin to unravel the mystery of their identities and learn that they’re pawns in a bigger game: the Unison 3.0 upgrade, a whole new kind of Friendship.
Unison Spark is a very unique story and a great debut novel from Andy Marino.  I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading his future books.

The world of ESC and Unison is unlike any I have read about.  Unison is basically the king of social networks and it is scary to think that someday we might come to that point.  I really think the world that Andy Marino created is his strongest point.  I loved reading about it and how it got to where it was.

The characters, on the other hand, were the weak point in the book.  I really liked Ambrose but I did not like Mistletoe.  It seemed like she was trying to be something she wasn't and I couldn't connect with her.  Sliv was also weak.  He seemed like a very interesting character but he was barely there.  I would have liked more of his story.

The plot of the book was another of it's redeeming qualities.  It was very fast-paced and interesting.  It was pretty much non-stop action.  I also liked that it was multiple POVs so you could see things through both character's eyes.

Overall, Unison Spark is a great dystopian sci-fi that I think will appeal to a lot of people.  Also, it seems like this one will be a standalone.  I felt that everything tied up very nicely in the end.

First line:  Her new name was Mistletoe.

Rating:  B

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Ashfall (Ashfall #1) by Mike Mullin

Title:  Ashfall (Ashfall #1)
Author:  Mike Mullin
Release date:  October 11, 2011
Publisher:  Tanglewood Press
Pages:  466
Source:  Author
Under the bubbling hot springs and geysers of Yellowstone National Park is a supervolcano. Most people don't know it's there. The caldera is so large that it can only be seen from a plane or satellite. It just could be overdue for an eruption, which would change the landscape and climate of our planet.

Ashfall is the story of Alex, a teenage boy left alone for the weekend while his parents visit relatives. When the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts unexpectedly, Alex is determined to reach his parents. He must travel over a hundred miles in a landscape transformed by a foot of ash and the destruction of every modern convenience that he has ever known, and through a new world in which disaster has brought out both the best and worst in people desperate for food, water, and warmth.
Ashfall is the most realistic apocalyptic novel I have ever read.  I couldn't put it down even when it scared the crap out of me.  =)

Ashfall is about the eruption of the supervolcano beneath Yellowstone.  Everything about the apocalypse this causes is thoroughly researched and completely realistic.  This book is so scary because it could really happen.  There is an ashen winter, one that could last for years.  This causes a shortage of food and supplies and everyone is on their own.  People go crazy looking for food and some of them lose their humanity. It is a dark time for people and it brings out the nastier side of people.  I was shocked by some of the things that happened in Ashfall.

The only thing that I didn't like about Ashfall was the characters.  I never felt connected to Alex or Darla.  They didn't seem to have much personality and I couldn't really get into their stories.  I'm hoping they develop more in the next book.

Overall, Ashfall is a great debut from Mike Mullin and I am very excited for the sequel.  Oh and this one, in my opinion, is a great book for guys and girls.

Disclaimer:  I would not recommend this for younger teens.  It is very gory and there is some sexual content.

First line:  I was home alone on that Friday evening.

Rating:  A-

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Waiting On Wednesday: Illuminate

Title:  Illuminate
Autor:  Aimee Agresti
Release date:  March 6, 2012
Haven Terra is a brainy, shy high school outcast. But everything begins to change when she turns sixteen. Along with her best friend Dante and their quiet and brilliant classmate Lance, she is awarded a prestigious internship in the big city— Chicago—and is sent to live and work at a swanky and stylish hotel under the watchful eyes of a group of gorgeous and shockingly young-looking strangers: powerful and alluring hotel owner Aurelia Brown; her second-in-command, the dashing Lucian Grove; and their stunning but aloof staff of glamazons called The Outfit.

As Haven begins falling for Lucian, she discovers that these beautiful people are not quite what they seem. With the help of a mysterious book, she uncovers a network of secret passageways from the hotel’s jazz-age past that leads her to the heart of the evil agenda of Aurelia and company: they’re in the business of buying souls. Will they succeed in wooing Haven to join them in their recruitment efforts, or will she be able to thwart this devilish set’s plans to take the souls of her classmates on prom night at the hotel?
I don't even know where to start with this one.  I think the cover is gorgeous and I like that it hints at what the book is about.  Also I love the idea of secret passageways in the hotel.  It sounds like this book will be a great mix of romance, mystery, and paranormal.  I can't wait!

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Lost In Time (Blue Bloods #6) by Melissa de la Cruz

Title:  Lost In Time (Blue Bloods #6)
Author:  Melissa de la Cruz
Release date:  September 27, 2011
Publisher:  Hyperion
Pages: 342
Source:  Bookstore
After their beautiful yet brief bonding ceremony in Italy, Schuyler Van Alen and Jack Force are forced to separate. To fulfill the Van Alen Legacy, Schuyler travels to Alexandria to search for Catherine of Siena and the Gate of Promise. But Schuyler quickly discovers that everything she believed about the Gate to be wrong. Meanwhile, Jack makes the difficult decision to return to New York to face his twin and former bondmate, Mimi. But instead of a bitter reunion, he is faced with a choice for which there is no good option.

Mimi, with a most unexpected travel companion in Oliver Hazard-Perry, jets off to Egypt, too, to search for Kingsley Martin, her long lost love. With all roads leading to Hell, Mimi learns that not all love stories have happy endings. But she'll have to put her own feelings aside if she's going to save her crumbling Coven.
SPOILER ALERT:  If you have not read the previous Blue Bloods books, do not read this review.  However, there will be no spoilers from this book!

Lost In Time, the sixth book in the Blue Bloods series, does not disappoint.  I have to say that this is one series that only gets better as it goes on.  Lost In Time was full of suspense, romance, lies, and betrayals.  Oh and that ending!  Can it just be January 2013 already?

The characters in this series have really developed since the beginning.  Schuyler is strong and brave and willing to do whatever it takes to save her race.  Jack is loving, sweet, brave, kind, and so selfless.  His love for Schuyler is all that matters and he will do anything to protect her. Mimi is not the bitch everyone thought she was.  She finally shows her heart (and her conscience) in this book.  Allegra and Charles have a much more twisted story than anyone could expect.  Kingsley is back and better than ever.  Oliver is moving on (finally) and growing up.  These books have a seriously great cast of characters.

The story switches POVs with each chapter; Schuyler, Mimi, and Allegra (in the past) all get to tell their stories.  It was a good way to build suspense because you are left wondering what is going on with the other characters between chapters.  Not that there wasn't enough suspense in this book already!  Geez!  Melissa de la Cruz really threw some curveballs in this book.

Overall, Lost In Time is a fabulous addition to the Blue Bloods series.  Can I please know how it all ends?  Pretty please?

Rating:  A++

Monday, November 7, 2011

Blog Tour: Guest Post with Andy Marino!

Today I am super stoked to have Andy Marino on the blog.  Andy Marino's debut novel, Unison Spark, will be out November 8th from Henry Holt.  It is a fantastic book and if you don't take me at my word, check out my review tomorrow!


When I was a teenager I had my sights set on art school. I wasn’t planning to be a writer because what I really loved to do was paint. In high school I spent free periods in the art room and after-school hours haunting the backstage storage area that contained the crusty old brushes and a paint-flecked industrial sink. I learned the songs for the high school musicals by sheer osmosis, just from hanging around and painting a cornfield backdrop or faux-Victorian cityscape while the cast rehearsed a stubbornly infectious song from OKLAHOMA! or OLIVER for the millionth time. In an emergency show-must-go-on situation, I probably could have been an understudy.

I didn’t realize it at the time, but joining a team of set designers was a way to make a mostly solitary art form collaborative and social. Whenever the cast wasn’t rehearsing, we’d get to blast music and run around in the surreal mess of the half-finished sets. This kind of painting didn’t feel like work, and it didn’t really feel like “making art” either. It just felt like fun.

What I’m getting at is this: if you’ve never burst out of a fake door onto an empty stage accompanied by the Mortal Kombat soundtrack, you haven’t truly lived.

When I decided to become a writer (painting didn’t stick), I learned pretty quickly that there was no other way to finish a novel except by sitting alone for a few hours every day. The two-step process I developed involved 1) staring at a blank Word document and 2) occasionally typing something on it. This went against everything I’d discovered to be fun – namely, creating stuff with other people. Not only that, but writing fiction required actively avoiding people in favor of being alone. It required a degree of rudeness. Most importantly, it required ignoring the sweet embrace of social media, the ultimate modern-life distraction that inspired UNISON SPARK in the first place.

Once I became a part of the publishing process (getting an agent, selling the novel, receiving editorial feedback, revising), the things I had been teaching myself to accept about the lonely grind of writing no longer applied. Being the absolute god-like ruler of a fictional world is pretty cool, but relying on criticism and advice to make that world a better place is an amazing and unique experience. It’s not the same kind of collaboration as creating a stage set or playing in a band (unless you’re doing something deeply weird, your agent and editor aren’t sitting at the computer with you, pressing the keys) but it can be just as awesome when some tricky bit of narrative falls into place because of an open exchange of ideas.

It’s this falling-into-place (the notorious click!) that makes writing fiction so interesting and worthwhile. And it’s made reading more fun, too: whenever I come across an ingenious convergence of events or stunning revelation, I send a little psychic shimmer of congratulations to the author because I recognize the click.

So grab some friends, crank up the Mortal Kombat soundtrack, and make some art. Let me know how it goes.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Blogging with Katie: Introduction Post


Sometimes blogging gets overwhelming, especially if you feel like you don't know what you are doing.  There are so many times when I feel like that and the goal of this new feature is to help out others who feel the same way.

I love bloggers and I love helping out bloggers when they need it.  Blogging can be very confusing at times.  It is only worse when it feels like there is nobody you can ask for help. With these posts I hope help answer any questions you might have about blogging, books, publishers, anything really.  Mind you, I am not an expert, but I do feel like I know a bit about these subjects!

I know some of you have already emailed or tweeted your questions to me but I have included a form below that anyone is open to fill out!


Also, I, in no way, take credit for this feature. I know other bloggers have done this in the past or do it now, I just thought I would start my own. =)

Saturday, November 5, 2011

In My Mailbox 133 (week of November 5)

In my mailbox is a meme created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie. It is a list of what books you have received over the previous week, either for review, from the library, from the bookstore, or from trades.


Bloggers mentioned:
-Nancy from Tales Of A Ravenous Reader
-Brooke from Brooke Reports
-Erika from Rescue Reads

For review:
-The Pledge by Kimberly Derting
-Hallowed (Unearthly #2) by Cynthia Hand
-Partials by Dan Wells
-Nicholas St.North And The Battle Of The Nightmare King by William Joyce & Laura Geringer

Gifted:
-Lola And The Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins (signed!)
-The Unbecoming Of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin (signed!)

Traded:
-Harbinger by Sara Wilson Etienne
-Memory Boy by Will Weaver

Blogger Survey: Stats!


Lately I have been wondering about stats for bloggers.  I honestly don't know anything about them; what is good, what is average, and what is bad.  I also don't know who to ask about these things so I am asking you guys.

I have created a completely anonymous survey for bloggers to fill out, if you would like to.  In one week I will post the results and hopefully it will tell us a little about what we should be aiming for.  =)


Thanks for taking the time to fill out the survey!

Friday, November 4, 2011

First Line Friday (7)

First Line Friday is a feature created by me, where I post five first lines from some books that I have on my TBR pile. You guys then get to vote, based on the first lines, for the book that I will read next. =)

Title:  Unearthly (Unearthly #1)
Author:  Cynthia Hand
Release date:  January 4, 2011
In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees. He's around my age, in that space between child and man, maybe all of seventeen years old.  I'm not sure how I know this. I can only see the back of his head, his dark hair curling damply against his neck.  I feel the dry heat of the sun, so intense, drawing the life from everything.  There's a strange orange light filling the eastern sky.  There's the heavy smell of smoke.  For a moment I'm filled with such a smothering sense of grief that it's hard to breathe.  I don't know why.  I take a step toward the boy, open my mouth to call his name, only I don't know it.  The ground crunches under my feet.  He hears me.  He starts to turn. One more second and I will see his face.

That's when the vision leaves me.  I blink, and it's gone.
Title:  Open Minds (Mindjack Trilogy #1)
Author:  Susan Kaye Quinn
Release date: November 1, 2011
A zero like me shouldn't take public transportation.

The hunched driver wrinkled a frown before I even got on the bus.  Her attempt to read my mind would get her nothing but the quiet of the street corner where I stood.  I kept my face neutral.  Nobody trusted a zero to begin with, but scowling back would only make the driver more suspicious.  I gripped my backpack and gym bag tighter and climbed the grime-coated steps.  The driver's mental command whooshed the door closed behind me.

Yeah, junior year was off to a fantastic start already.
Title:  Angelfire (Angelfire #1)
Author: Courtney Allison Moulton
Release date:  February 15, 2011
I stared out the classroom window and longed for freedom, to be anywhere in the world other than gaping up at my economics teacher like the rest of my classmates. The last time I had listened to him, Mr. Meyer had been lecturing about fiscal policy, and that was when he lost me.  My eyes rolled over to my best friend, Kate Green who was doodling intricate flowers all over her notes and looked like she was thoroughly entertaining herself.  Meanwhile, I was reduced to staring at the wiry, gray chest hair puffing out at the collar of Mr. Meyer's polo shirt like overgrown steel wool and wondering whether he'd ever considered waxing.  
Title:  Dark Inside
Author:  Jeyn Roberts
Release date:  November 1, 2011
I'm standing at the edge of existence.  Behind me, a thousand monsters descend. Their disguises change with each stride.

When they look in a mirror do they see their true selves?
Title:  Wherever You Go
Author:  Heather Davis
Release date:  Novemeber 14, 2011
You've been by her side for six months, but she hasn't noticed you.  Still, you slip into her mother's sixth-floor apartment and keep her company while she eats her kid sister's sugary cereal in the dark kitchen.  And you're there with her as she gets books from her locker in Hallway C.  Sometimes her gaze wanders to the picture of you taped below the vents.  You're on her mind in the seconds before she slams the door shut.
So based on these first lines (or paragraphs) which book would you like me to read and review next?

Thursday, November 3, 2011

A Touch Mortal (Touch Mortal #1) by Leah Clifford

Title:  A Touch Mortal (Touch Mortal #1)
Author:  Leah Clifford
Release date:  February 22, 2011
Publisher:  Greenwillow Books
Pages:  432
Source:  Publisher
Eden didn't expect Az.

Not his saunter down the beach toward her. Not his unbelievable pick-up line. Not the instant, undeniable connection. And not his wings.

Yeah.

So long, happily-ever-after.

Now trapped between life and death, cursed to spread chaos with her every touch, Eden could be the key in the eternal struggle between heaven and hell. All because she gave her heart to one of the Fallen, an angel cast out of heaven.

She may lose everything she ever had. She may be betrayed by those she loves most. But Eden will not be a pawn in anyone else's game. Her heart is her own.

And that's only the beginning of the end.
A Touch Mortal is a very unique book with a gripping story that I loved but for some reason I didn't love the book itself.  From the very first page I was hooked and I never once was bored with the story but there were just too many flaws that I couldn't seem to get past.

I'll start with the good: the story itself.  Wow!  A Touch Mortal was nothing like I expected and I really was intrigued from the very start. I could never guess what was going to happen next and it made it very hard for me to put the book down.

Now, it is an angel story but these are not your typical angels. These fallen angels have fallen far and hard and they are not happy about it.  Man, Luke was one evil guy!  Az and Gabe are more like your typical angels but their stories are still very unique.  Eden's story was even more unique but I'm going to leave you guessing about that.

As for Eden, she wasn't so unique.  She was just like all other heroines who rely on guys for their happiness. I was really disappointed with her as a character.  There were so many times when I thought she was going to change but instead she went right back to pining for Az.  And wow!  Talk about a destructive relationship.  Not just for Eden but also for Az.  Then there was Adam who would have been a great guy for Eden but of course that couldn't quite work out.  It just seemed to me like all the characters were a little underdeveloped but I hope that changes with the sequel.

Overall, A Touch Mortal excelled in some categories but fell flat in others.  Luckily I still really enjoyed it and I think others will too.  I'm hoping A Touch Morbid excels in all categories!

Disclaimer: I would not recommend this one for younger teens. There is quite a bit of death and there are just some topics that I find unsuitable for young teens (even some older teens!) If this book interests you, read it but be warned.  =)

First line:  Eden dug her hand into the damp sand, black polish chipping off the tips of her fingernails.

Rating:  B-

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

November Giveaway: Tempest!

I was lucky enough to get two ARCs of Tempest by Julie Cross and I want to share my extra copy with one of you guys!

The year is 2009. Nineteen-year-old Jackson Meyer is a normal guy… he’s in college, has a girlfriend… and he can travel back through time. But it’s not like the movies – nothing changes in the present after his jumps, there’s no space-time continuum issues or broken flux capacitors – it’s just harmless fun.

That is… until the day strangers burst in on Jackson and his girlfriend, Holly, and during a struggle with Jackson, Holly is fatally shot. In his panic, Jackson jumps back two years to 2007, but this is not like his previous time jumps. Now he’s stuck in 2007 and can’t get back to the future.

Desperate to somehow return to 2009 to save Holly but unable to return to his rightful year, Jackson settles into 2007 and learns what he can about his abilities.

But it’s not long before the people who shot Holly in 2009 come looking for Jackson in the past, and these “Enemies of Time” will stop at nothing to recruit this powerful young time-traveler. Recruit… or kill him.

Piecing together the clues about his father, the Enemies of Time, and himself, Jackson must decide how far he’s willing to go to save Holly… and possibly the entire world.
If you would like to read an excerpt of the book check out the Facebook page!

Details:
-Three winner will receive ARCs of Tempest.

Requirements:
-You must have a US/CA mailing address.
-You must fill out the form to be entered.
-This giveaway ends November 30.

Fill out the form here!